The Chicago Red Stars added midfielders Julia Bianchi and Cari Roccaro to the roster on Wednesday.
They signed Brazil’s Bianchi to a two-year contract and acquired Roccaro in a trade with Angel City FC.
Bianchi, 25, spent the past two seasons in her home country with Palmeiras, appearing in 77 matches.
She helped the club win three championships (Paulista Cup, Libertadores and Paulista Championship) in that span.
“Julia is a talented player. She can play a number of different positions and be effective in each one,” said Red Stars coach Chris Petrucelli. “She’s proven to be a top player in Brazil, and we expect the same kind of success in the NWSL. She’s still a young player so we’re very excited about her future in Chicago.”
Bem-vinda, @bianchi_j5! The Brazilian player, Julia Bianchi, has signed a two-year contract with the Red Stars. Who's excited for 2023?
— Chicago Red Stars (@chicagoredstars) January 25, 2023
Internationally, Bianchi was with Brazil’s national team for the 2020 Summer Olympics and 2021 SheBelieves Cup.
The Red Stars sent $65,000 in allocation money to Angel City to acquire Roccaro, 28.
Roccaro scored four goals in 21 matches (20 starts) for ACFC last season.
Originally selected fifth overall by the Houston Dash in the 2016 NWSL Draft, Roccaro played for the North Carolina Courage (2018-21) before joining Angel City in 2022.
–Field Level Media
