Angel City FC has unveiled USWNT star forward Christen Press as the first signing in the franchise history. The NWSL side, which will play its inaugural season in 2022, confirmed the move on social media on Monday.
This marks the return to NSWL for Press, who spent the last season in England with Manchester United. The 32-year-old forward made 17 appearances in the Women’s Super League, scoring four times while adding one assist.
In order to sign Press, Angel City had to acquire her rights from Racing Louisville. The two clubs agreed to compensation that includes City’s first-round pick in 2022 NWSL Draft, $75,000 in allocation money, and roster protection.
Christen Press’s most recent stint in NSWL was with the Utah Royals FC, where she scored 10 goals in 25 games between 2018 and 2020. Previously, Press also played 60 games with Chicago Red Stars, finding the net 35 times.
Press has 155 appearances for United States Women’s National Team as well, scoring 64 times in international matches. She was part of USWNT’s roster that won two World Cup trophies and a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
Bringing in Press wasn’t the only piece of business for Angel City FC on Monday. The team also announced that Freya Coombe is joining the franchise as its first head coach. Combe is currently coaching NJ/NY Gotham FC.
