San Diego Wave sign Catarina Macario through 2030 in historic NWSL move

A marquee signing for the NWSL

San Diego, March 27 — San Diego Wave FC has officially announced the signing of Catarina Macario from the United States Women's National Team, with a contract running through 2030.

After a mixed start to the season in the National Women's Soccer League, the club strengthens its squad with one of the top international talents in women’s soccer.

A long-anticipated transfer

Rumors of Macario’s move had been circulating for months while she was playing for Chelsea FC Women in the Women's Super League.

The deal is now official and is considered one of the most significant transfers in league history.

Elite-level experience

At 26, Macario brings top-level experience.

She began her professional career with Olympique Lyonnais Féminin, winning the UEFA Women's Champions League in 2021-22.

She later joined Chelsea, where she won back-to-back league titles in 2023-24 and 2024-25.

International impact

Macario has earned 29 caps and scored 16 goals for the USWNT.

She was also part of the squad that won bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, further cementing her status as a key player for the national team.

A move that could reshape the league

This signing is not only about talent but also reflects the evolution of the league.

With new regulations influenced by players like Trinity Rodman, the NWSL now allows higher-value transfers, making deals like this possible.

San Diego Wave now positions itself as one of the most ambitious clubs in the league.

When will Macario debut?

Although Macario is already in San Diego, fans will have to wait a bit longer to see her on the field.

The club announced she will be officially introduced during halftime of the upcoming match against Chicago Red Stars, with her debut expected shortly after.