Catarina Macario 'overwhelmed with emotion' on Chelsea return after 641 days on the sideline due to injury - with USWNT star scoring on Blues' debut

In their 3-0 victory over Leicester City Sunday, the USWNT star made her debut for the Blues after joining from Lyon in France. Arriving on a torn ACL, Macario had multiple setbacks in her recovery from the injury, leaving her nearly two years on the sideline. However, she used the minutes she was given off the bench to make an impact, netting their third goal of the game.

She wrote on Instagram: "After 21 months, 641 days, endless hours of rehabilitation, and many many tears later, I’m so overwhelmed with emotions that last night still feels surreal. To say this journey has been the most challenging period of my life is an understatement. I went through so many setbacks, so many heartbreaks and doubts, that I thought at times that I would never be able to play football again. But, last night made every single struggle and hardship worth it. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank Chelsea for never giving up on me, for supporting me in more ways than I could have ever imagined, and for giving me the opportunity to play the beautiful game again. A massive thank you to the fans as well for your love and encouragement since the day I joined. I feel so blessed to be part of this special team and club, and I can’t wait to enjoy more moments like yesterday with you all!"

With Macario in the picture for club and country now, she can be utilized as an attacking midfielder or as a striker in either setup. A true fox in the box, Macario is a tidy finisher who compliments any attacking setup.

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2024, with Emma Hayes at the helm of the USWNT for the forthcoming Paris Olympic Games, Macario could - remarkably - find herself on the roster if she finds a brilliant run of form.

With Mia Fishel out for the remainder of 2024, Macario could find herself in the mix alongside Alex Morgan and Sophia Smith at the No. 9 position.

The Blues are back in action on Thursday, March 7 in the Women's League Cup against WSL title-contenders Manchester City. Chelsea will look to advance by beating their direct competitors for this year's crown, while Macario will look to make another impact on the pitch.