Catarina Macario, considered one of the best prospects for the US women’s national team in years, has signed with European champions Lyon.
The 21-year-old has been on the radar of big clubs for several years and won the Hermann Trophy, awarded to the best men’s and women’s college soccer players, in 2018 and 2019. She decided to leave Stanford one year early in order to turn professional after scoring 63 goals in 68 games for the university.
“It is a pleasure to start my professional career at OL and to find myself surrounded by the best players in the world,” Macario said. “OL represent victories, titles, trophies and I can’t wait to arrive in Lyon and be part of this team.
“I know a lot of American players have worn this jersey before me. It is a great pride to be able to perpetuate this heritage and to be able to contribute to the success of the team. I hope I can progress to become a better player.”
Macario was born in Brazil but moved to the US at the age of 12 to pursue her soccer career. She is eligible to represent both countries but is currently training with the US and is expected to make her debut soon.
Macario’s move is a blow to the US domestic soccer scene as there were hopes she would begin her professional career in the NWSL.