Chelsea have signed US forward, Catarina Macario from Lyon on a three-year contract until June 2026.
Macario’s move to Chelsea comes after two-and-a-half years at Lyon, where she scored 28 goals in 44 appearances but missed the entirety of this season with an Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury.
Speaking about her decision to move to Chelsea, Macario said: “I’m really happy to sign for Chelsea and I hope to represent the jersey well over the next few years.”
Macario also spoke of her excitement at “linking up with so many good forward players” like Sam Kerr, Lauren James and Guro Reiten, whilst having the versatility to “play either as a No.10 or a more traditional number nine” depending upon manager – Emma Hayes’ tactics.
Macario will also be reunited with her ex Lyon teammate, Kadeisha Buchanan who she believes will be “good” to have in the squad as she transitions.
The 23 year-old also paid tribute to Lyon as she commented: “I’ve been fortunate to have some great experiences in Europe already with Lyon, playing with many top players and of course winning the Champions League also.
“I hope to carry on those experiences here and bring home the trophy for Chelsea as well!”
Hayes added that Macario will add extra quality up front as she described the American as “one of the most intelligent, creative attacking players in the world who I think will blossom in this Chelsea team.”
On what Macario will bring to the team following Pernille Harder’s exit, Hayes added: “She brings a great deal of flair, European experience, and an unbelievable winning mentality. I think our fans will really love her.”
Macario is unlikely to be part of USA’s squad for this summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, meaning that she will have maximum time to successfully complete her recovery ahead of her debut season at Chelsea.
Leave a Reply