Houston Dash sign veteran attacker Yuki Nagasato

(image via Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports)

The Houston Dash announced today the signing of veteran attacker Yuki Nagasato to a two-year contract. The 36-year-old after spending the last two years with the Chicago Red Stars. Nagasato played in 19 matches last season in NWSL, starting 18 of them, and had 3 goals and 2 assists.

“I am super excited to join this ambitious club and being part of the Space City community,” Nagasato said. “As a veteran player I want to bring harmony, calmness and a winning mindset to the team. As well as bringing a trophy to Houston. I can’t wait to get started to work with all the talented players and coaching staff and play in front of the fans at Shell Energy Stadium!” 

Nagasato also played for Racing Louisville in NWSL. She has spent time at clubs around the world including Chelsea in England, Frankfurt in Germany, and a loan spell with Brisbane Roar in Australia. She is also the first female footballers to play for the first-team of a Japanese men’s club, making four appearances at Hayabusa Eleven in the Kanagawa Perfecture League.

Nagasato will bring more veteran experience to the Dash midfield that includes Sophie Schmidt, Andressa, and Sarah Puntigam. With Marisa Viggiano and Shea Groom leaving in free agency and Joelle Anderson being traded, Houston could use another attacking piece in the midfield, which they hope Nagasato will bring them.

“We’re excited to add Yuki to our team and welcome her to Houston. Yuki is a total professional who brings championship pedigree, leadership and winning experience,” Dash General Manager, Alex Singer said. “She is a versatile technical player with the ability to control the tempo of the game, create, and finish chances."