Can a team thrive without its marquee signing? San Diego Wave FC placed forward Catarina Macario on the season‑ending list Monday, closing a chapter that never truly began for the USWNT star who signed a record‑setting contract earlier this year.
The Wave sit fourth in the standings with 42 points, still in the mix for the NWSL Shield and playoffs. Despite the fanfare surrounding Macario’s arrival, she never stepped onto the field in 2026.
The 26‑year‑old took to Instagram to share her disappointment and gratitude, confirming a knee surgery.
She wrote, “A few months ago I underwent a minor procedure to address an ongoing knee issue. I pushed hard hoping to return this season, but doing it right means keeping the bigger picture in mind.”
A different injury
When Macario arrived from Chelsea for a $300,000 transfer, she was rehabbing a heel injury. The announcement sparked excitement, especially since she grew up in San Diego, with the club promising to work around her recovery timeline.
The club issued the following statement to CBS Sports about the latest injury update.
“Catarina was initially sidelined with a heel injury, which is why she appeared on the report that way. She later had a minor procedure for a lingering knee problem, which will keep her out for the rest of the season … Beyond this, we won’t comment further at this time,” the release read.
Her social‑media update was lengthy and candid.
“Honestly, it sucks to be in this spot again. There’s no way around how tough another rehab is or being away from the game I love. I miss football, I miss competing, and after returning home to San Diego I wanted nothing more than to be out there with my teammates, representing this club and this city,” she said.
“But as hard as that is to accept, I know what I’m working toward. More than anything I want to feel fully myself again: playing freely, without limits, and giving my best for the long haul. For now that means being patient, trusting the work we’re doing, and continuing to build toward what lies ahead.
“I’m not seeing this as a fresh start; I see it as building a stronger foundation on and off the field. I train hard daily, I’m excited about where I’m heading, and I can’t wait to show you what’s next. Thanks to my teammates, the staff who’ve been with me every day, and everyone who continues to shower me with love and support.”
Tough timing with the World Cup looming
Although the knee procedure is classified as minor, a national‑team comeback is ruled out for the rest of the year. The USWNT has friendlies against Spain in October. Macario’s setback follows a massive 2025 with the national team.
She led the USWNT with eight goals and two assists in ten appearances and was a finalist for the 2025 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year. For now she looks ahead with no set timeline for return.
The national team will enter World Cup qualifiers in late November when the CONCACAF W Championship begins, facing El Salvador in a quarterfinal. Advancing secures a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the top three will earn places at the 2028 LA Olympics.
San Diego’s trajectory
Macario’s contract ranks among the biggest deals in NWSL history. Despite the homecoming and a delayed debut, her signing was a statement for a club that had lost several key players. In my view, the move highlighted the franchise’s bold ambition.
Alex Morgan retired in 2024, Naomi Girma and Jaedyn Shaw departed in 2025, and before the 2026 season goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan was traded to North Carolina. While Macario was expected to be the face of San Diego’s new era, the squad still delivered a remarkable season without her.
Brazilian international Dudinha posted an MVP‑caliber campaign before an ACL tear in June, yet the roster has stepped up to keep the Wave among the elite contenders.
Barbra Banda lands new contract
Amid a flurry of changes at Orlando Pride, including the appointment of interim head coach Yolanda Thomas and loaning keeper Anna Moorehouse to Manchester City, the club handled a more pressing matter on Monday.
Top scorer Barbra Banda signed an extension through the 2029 season.
“Barbra is a cornerstone of everything we are building at the Pride,” said Orlando Pride VP of Soccer Operations and GM Caitlin Carducci.
“She is one of the most dynamic players in world football, and her impact on our club has been extraordinary since arriving in Orlando. As we chase championships, it’s critical we not only attract top talent but also create an environment where the world’s best want to stay and build their careers. Barbra’s decision reflects the culture, ambition, and standards we’ve established.”
Banda’s previous deal ran through 2027; the new contract removes the pressure of a looming contract year. She leads with 16 goals in 20 games this season, shattering the club record set by Marta in 2017 (13 goals).
“I’m thrilled to continue my journey with Pride,” Banda said. “Thanks to teammates, coaches, staff, and fans for believing in me daily. Orlando has become special to me, and I’m excited to keep fighting for this club and win more trophies together.”
What will the Wave’s season look like without Macario, and can Orlando’s renewed core carry the club deep into next year’s title chase?
There’s no official timetable for Macario’s return, likely not until the NWSL starts in 2027. San Diego will face Kansas City Current on Friday, while Orlando meets Portland Thorns on Saturday.