Official: Christen Press signs with Angel City FC

Angel City FC has taken the first steps in creating their team ahead of its first season in the NWSL. Fresh on the heels of hiring their coach in Freya Coombe, the LA Times is reporting that Christen Press will be announced as the team’s first signed player.

Update: it is official.

Christen Press, who played last season at Manchester United, had her NWSL rights held by Racing Louisville, who picked her up in the expansion draft last year. Press is a native of Southern California, and it was widely speculated that Angel City, who enters the league in 2022, would do what it took to land Press as their star signing. Angel City had to acquire Press’s rights from Racing Louisville, and it seems that Louisville have that agreement in place:

Press, who stars for the United States Women’s National Team, had left Manchester United just before the Olympics with the intention of returning to the NWSL. She has 64 goals in 155 international caps for the USWNT and has 46 goals in 88 NWSL appearances for the Chicago Red Stars and the Utah Royals. She also has stints with magicJack of the former WPS, twice with Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC, as well as with Tyersö FF.

Christen Press forms the centerpiece of Angel City’s offense next season, and the team has an ambassador that knows the area well and will surely get the community excited. Press’s deal is reportedly for 2 seasons with an option for a 3rd, for a total value of $550,000, one of the highest in league history. Her club salary will be financed by Angel City, though she will still be under contract with U.S. Soccer. A 4-time NWSL Best XI selection, Angel City hopes she can bring that magic home to lift them in their opening season.

Hit the comments to discuss Christen Press’s move to Angel City FC.