Player Profile

Name: Catarina Macario

National Team: United States

Place of Birth: Sao Luis, Brazil

Position: Forward

DOB: 4 October, 1999 (age 23)

Height: 1.65m (5 ft 5 in)

Before Chelsea

Macario spent her college career with Stanford University, helping them win two National Collegiate Athletic Association Championships with 63 goals in 69 games. She received the MAC Hermann Trophy on two occasions, which recognises top men’s and women’s soccer players in the United States.

She signed her first professional contract with Lyon in January 2021 and played a crucial role in helping the French outfit to the 2021/22 French title and UEFA Women’s Champions League. Macario struck 23 goals in 33 games and became the first American to score in a Women’s Champions League final.

This summer, the 23-year-old signed a three-year deal with Chelsea. She was handed the prestigious No.9 shirt on arrival, following in the footsteps of club legends Eniola Aluko and Bethany England.

An explosive and versatile player, Macario is comfortable playing as a central striker or an attacking midfielder. The Brazilian-born talent moved to the United States at just 12 years of age and has developed into one of the most exciting young prospects on the world stage.

Did you know?

Born in Brazil, Macario made the move to the United States aged 12 to pursue her goals and aspirations. During the Blues pre-season trip to Portugal, she discussed that transition and expressed gratitude for the support she has received throughout her life and career.

‘It was tough, I didn’t really know any English when I went to the U.S,’ Macario said. ‘I didn’t know the language, it was very hard to learn the language and everything I knew was upside down. Fortunately, I had football and if you know how to play, you don’t need to know English.

‘I’ve been very blessed with the people that have come across my life since the very beginning. People went out of their way to be helpful and extend their hands, treating us like family is something I will never forget. It was tough, but we made it!’

International career

On the international stage, Macario represented her country at youth level before making her debut for the senior United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) in January 2021. She has since earned 17 caps.

Click here to secure your seats for the Blues opening WSL fixture against Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Sunday 1 October, with kick-off at 5.30pm (UK time).