San Diego Wave signs Catarina Macario to record-breaking deal
Credit: San Diego Wave FC
This Friday, March 27, the San Diego Wave officially announced the signing of Catarina Macario from Chelsea FC.
Macario signed a contract through the 2030 season, reportedly worth around 2 million dollars per season.
This is one of the biggest transactions in women’s football history and in the NWSL. Macario joins Wave FC after having spent the entirety of her career in Europe.
Macario magic ✨ pic.twitter.com/CVERV60QHL
— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) March 27, 2026
The Brazilian-born player started her professional career in 2021 with French club Lyon, then earned a major move to Chelsea FC in 2023. At Lyon, Macario enjoyed decorated success, being part of a league title and a UEFA Women’s Champions League title run.
Chelsea was unable to lift the Champions League with Macario, but did win two league titles, two League Cup titles, and an FA Cup win. Macario has also been a staple for the U.S. women’s national team since 2023, being part of three SheBelieves Cup title-winning teams and achieving an Olympic bronze medal at the 2021 games.
Long before all of this success, Macario started playing the beautiful game at a very early age, then eventually moved to San Diego to pursue her dreams at 12 years old. The Brazilian-born player broke records and became a star prospect with San Diego Surf, then went on to play collegiate soccer at Stanford.
Macario talked about playing for what she considers to be her hometown team. “To return home and join Wave FC means the absolute world to me. I’m still dreaming about it,t to be honest,” said Macario.
made in America’s Finest City 🫶 pic.twitter.com/LLEu93eToG
— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) March 27, 2026
“To represent the city and play for San Diego is just very special to me. It will just be a full circle moment.”
Wave FC Sporting Director and General Manager Camille Ashton talked about this splash signing. “Cat is a world-class player who has consistently performed at the highest levels of the game. She is an intelligent, technical, and creative attacker with exceptional vision and composure in the final third. Her ability to unlock defenses and influence matches in multiple ways will further strengthen an already strong foundation as we continue building towards championship success.”
Last season, Macario started just eight games for Chelsea and managed to score six goals and provide three assists in 18 total games played. This already explosive San Diego offense has already shown how dangerous it can be with players like Dudinha, Ludmila, Kenza Dali, and Gia Corley.
Macario will only further improve this attack and will really give the Wave a chance at fighting for the NWSL crown.
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.