As the NWSL playoff race shifts into high gear, clubs across the league are making big moves — including player signings, staffing changes, and an injury designation for USWNT standout Catarina Macario.
No. 11 Orlando started the week off strong, re-signing Ballon d’Or nominee Barbra Banda to a reported seven-figure contract through 2029.
“Orlando has become a special place for me, and I am excited to keep fighting for this club and win more trophies together,” Banda said in a team statement.
Other teams faced heavier news, as No. 4 San Diego’s Catarina Macario landed on the season-ending injury list, pushing her Wave debut to 2027.
The USWNT star is currently recovering from knee surgery, after a heel injury overshadowed her record-setting transfer from Chelsea in March.
No. 12 Houston also caused a stir, parting ways with technical director Twila Kilgore and head coach Fabrice Gautrat.
