Chicago Stars land 17-year-old USWNT sensation to transform their NWSL future | OneFootball

Chicago Stars FC announced the signing of 17-year-old USWNT forward Micayla Johnson to a deal until 2027. She comes into the roster as one of the names for the future of the club. Young, recent performances with the U.S. Youth National Team have showed that she has much room to grow and make a difference in the professional arena.

Johnson's career so far

Micayla Johnson began to turn heads with the U.S. U-17 Women's National Team The forward, in her first two appearances with the team in July 2024 scored against Brazil on her debut in a friendly match and made the cut in the U.S. roster for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup that same year. Johnson made six appearances in the tournament, adding to a goal against Colombia in the group stage that gave the United States passage into the knockout stage, where they finished third.

These moments brought Johnson into the spotlight, underlining that she is able to give much even in a competitive context. Now, when she'll put on a Chicago Stars jersey, she'll try not to stop at development reached but proceed with it in the pro format.

Vision of the Chicago Stars

For the Chicago Stars, signing an athlete like Micayla Johnson means investing in a long-term project. The general manager of the club, Richard Feuz, acclaimed the arrival of the young forward, who started promisingly on the international stage. Johnson is coming not only as a talent to develop but also as part of the squad-enhancement plan with players able to grow up together in the team.

“We’re happy to have Micayla joining Chicago Stars FC,” Feuz said.

Preparation for the 2025 season

Following her stint with the U.S. U-17s, Johnson will start preseason training with the Chicago Stars that will include sessions in Chicago and a stint at IMG Academy in Florida. This is indicative of the commitment of the club toward providing a professional setup where youngsters like Johnson get to transition into the NWSL and prepare for the rigors of a high-level league.

The Stars kick off the 2025 season at Orlando Pride on March 14, but arguably the most important date will be the home opener against on March 23 when Johnson should be introduced to the local fans. Undoubtedly, everyone will watch every step she takes on the field expecting magical performances.

Johnson's Future in the NWSL

Despite her age, Johnson has already acquired some international experience that can make her transition to professional soccer a bit faster. However, she is still in development. At Chicago Stars, she will find the right setting, with competition and learning combined in proper proportions, fundamental for her growth as an athlete.

His arrival also symbolizes the importance invested in national talent. A strategy in itself is betting on promising young players like Micayla.