CHICAGO, IL. (Jan. 11, 2022) – The Chicago Red Stars today announced a trade with Racing Louisville FC that will see fan-favorite, Yuki Nagasato, return to the club for the 2022 season. In exchange for Nagasato, Chicago is sending their 2023 natural third-round pick, as well as a 2022 and 2023 international roster slot to Racing Louisville.
“I’m extremely happy to be back playing in the Windy City,” said Nagasato. “I have such an appreciation for the incredible amount of enthusiasm Chicago’s fans bring to the field. It’s a joy to be a part of something that special. I’m looking forward to building a stronger connection with Chicago and can’t wait to be working with old friends again!”
Last year with Racing Louisville, Nagasato made 21 appearances with 18 starts and scored two goals, including one against the Red Stars. The forward also notched a goal in the inaugural Women’s Cup Championship against FC Bayern Munich. Nagasato’s previous experience with the Red Stars includes 58 appearances, with 13 goals and 18 assists. Prior to joining the National Women's Soccer League, Nagasato played with NTV Beleza in her home country of Japan, Chelsea FC in England and FFC Turbine Potsdam, VfL Wolfsburg and FFC Frankfurt in Germany.
“We're thrilled to welcome Yuki back to Chicago,” said Rade Tanaskovic, Acting Head Coach of the Red Stars. “We believe her veteran experience will help our incoming young players and push our team towards our ultimate goal of bringing a championship to the city of Chicago.”
Internationally, Nagasato represented Japan in three FIFA Women’s World Cups, achieved 132 caps, scored 58 international goals and was part of the Japanese team that won the 2011 Women’s World Cup. Nagasato also is the first woman to sign with the men’s team Hayabusa Eleven in her native Japan.