This Monday, June 23, the San Diego Wave officially announced that Maria Sanchez was departing the club to rejoin Tigres Femenil. Sanchez will be back with her former club in the women’s Mexican league for an undisclosed transfer fee.

The Mexican international started the Wave’s last game against the Washington Spirit this past Sunday, June 23. Sanchez played 73 minutes of the match, but struggled offensively, much like San Diego’s attack in the scoreless draw.

gracias por todo y haber portado nuestros colores 💙

all the best, bombi 🌊 pic.twitter.com/jaWkppDaFk

— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) June 23, 2025

The 29-year-old forward was a consistent starter for the Wave last season, starting 22 games in the NWSL regular season. With several players fighting for playing time, her minutes were down to start this 2025 campaign. However, “Bombi” was very effective this season, scoring three goals and providing two assists in 12 games.

Sanchez started her professional playing career in NWSL, but went on to play in Mexico for Chivas and Tigres after a brief stint in Chicago. The Mexican international helped Tigres capture the 2021 Clasura Liga MX Femenil title in what was a very productive year.

Shortly after her success in Mexico, Sanchez joined the Houston Dash in 2021 and enjoyed a very successful stint until 2024. This was Sanchez’s second season with San Diego Wave, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

“When the opportunity came to return to Tigres, I had to do a lot of inner searching, and I ultimately decided that returning to Liga MX Femenil and Tigres specifically was the best course of action for my career. I am thankful to Camile for supporting me in taking this next step. To my teammates, coaches, staff, and of course the Sirens, thank you for making San Diego feel like home”, said Sanchez.

With the veteran’s departure, younger players like Melanie Barcenas and Kimmi Ascanio are set to receive more playing time. Both players have already received plenty of minutes this season, but are set to have a more important role in Sanchez’s absence.

The Wave are still riding high on the NWSL standings, currently third on the table with 24 points. There will be a break from NWSL play until August, which will make this roster change easier for Jonas Eidevall to cope with.

Francisco Velasco

Francisco, 28, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego FC, San Diego Wave. I have covered Liga MX, MLS, Mexico National Team, USWNT, Copa América and European clubs like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.