Christen Press Announces Her Retirement from Professional Soccer
Former USWNT forward Christen Press shared the news of her retirement from professional soccer during her appearance on “Good Morning America.” Press will conclude her career at the end of the current NWSL season.
The NWSL has seen an increase in teenage signings, moving away from years when the age of a player drew significant attention. Although the league still lacks a consolidated academy system, changes such as the elimination of the college draft and the introduction of youth combines for scouting younger talent have contributed to a more inclusive recruitment environment.
Young talent is now increasingly making waves in the league, with many teams actively scouting players who can make an immediate impact. Previously ranked under-19 players have aged out, such as U.S. women’s national team members Alyssa Thompson, Jaedyn Shaw, Olivia Moultrie, and the Japanese international Manaka Matsukubo, turning 20 this year. Notably, Thompson transferred to Chelsea in September.
Despite some stars aging out of eligibility, this year’s rankings show an increase in teen players compared to last year. Several upcoming talents are already showcasing their capabilities on both national and international stages. The following list ranks the top young players under 19, highlighting those making substantial contributions this season.
21. Zoe Matthews
Age: 18
Position: Defender
Club: Houston Dash (currently on loan with Dux Logroño)
Country: USA
Matthews is gaining valuable experience on loan in Spain until June 2026. She is a regular with the U.S. youth national teams and previously trained with Jamaica’s senior squad.
20. Katie Scott
Age: 18
Position: Defender
Club: Kansas City Current
Country: USA
Having appeared in just two matches so far, Scott is gradually adjusting to the league. Despite being loaned out to Racing Louisville, she was recently recalled without any game time during her loan. Scott has represented the U.S. at multiple youth levels.
19. Mak Whitham
Age: 15
Position: Forward
Club: NJ/NY Gotham FC
Country: USA
As the youngest player in the league, Whitham has played in six league matches and has also featured in several Concacaf Champions Cup matches, contributing to her development.
18. KK Ream
Age: 16
Position: Forward
Club: Utah Royals
Country: USA
Ream made history in August as the youngest goal-scorer in NWSL history, scoring the decisive goal against the Portland Thorns. She is set to compete in the U17 World Cup with the U.S.
17. Micayla Johnson
Age: 17
Position: Forward
Club: Chicago Stars FC
Country: USA
Johnson scored her first professional goal earlier this month, adding to the hope and excitement surrounding her as she embarks on her career with the Chicago Stars.
16. Ainsley McCammon
Age: 18
Position: Midfielder
Club: Seattle Reign FC
Country: USA
McCammon has gained valuable experience, playing in 14 matches for the Seattle Reign this season, showing her potential as part of a playoff-contending team.
15. Chloe Ricketts
Age: 18
Position: Midfielder
Club: Houston Dash (contracted with Boston Legacy for 2026)
Country: USA
Ricketts is set to make a fresh start with NWSL expansion team Boston Legacy FC next season, which is expected to provide her with more opportunities for on-field development.
14. Alex Pfeiffer
Age: 17
Position: Forward
Club: Kansas City Current
Country: USA
Pfeiffer caught attention last year with a goal in her debut at just 16. She’s known for her confidence on the pitch, despite facing setbacks with injuries in recent seasons.
13. Mary Long
Age: 18
Position: Forward
Club: Kansas City Current
Country: USA
Long has found her footing in her first pro season after leaving college and has made contributions at the youth international level.
12. Melanie Barcenas
Age: 17
Position: Winger
Club: San Diego Wave FC
Country: USA
Barcenas is known for her entertaining style of play, often showcasing her skills throughout the season. The next step for her is to increase her impact on the field.
11. Casey Phair
Age: 18
Position: Forward
Club: Angel City FC (currently on loan to Djurgården)
Country: South Korea
Phair has shown growth and potential while on loan in Sweden, enhancing her playing time after beginning her career at a young age with South Korea at the senior level.
10. Valerin Loboa
Age: 18
Position: Forward
Club: Portland Thorns FC
Country: Colombia
Loboa has been in the spotlight since playing internationally for Colombia, and with a contract running through 2028, she represents a significant investment by Portland for the future.
9. Laila Harbert
Age: 18
Position: Midfielder
Club: Portland Thorns FC (on loan from Arsenal)
Country: England
Harbert has been gaining valuable experience during her loan period, showcasing her talent as she aims for a future spot on England’s senior squad.
8. Trinity Armstrong
Age: 18
Position: Defender
Club: San Diego Wave FC
Country: USA
Armstrong is developing well in her center-back role and has shown resilience on the field while stepping up to fill significant gaps left by departing players.
7. Emeri Adames
Age: 19
Position: Forward
Club: Seattle Reign FC
Country: USA
Adames has emerged as a key player this season, leading all teenagers with six goals and demonstrating her ability to change the dynamics of a game.
6. Kimmi Ascanio
Age: 17
Position: Forward
Club: San Diego Wave FC
Country: USA
Ascanio is noted for her fluid playing style and has made significant improvements, contributing four goals and an assist this season.
5. Riley Jackson
Age: 19
Position: Midfielder
Club: North Carolina Courage
Country: USA
Jackson showcased impressive playmaking skills this season, leading this group in expected assists, highlighting her creative potential.
4. Kennedy Fuller
Age: 18
Position: Midfielder
Club: Angel City FC
Country: USA
With standout performances that include four goals and three assists, Fuller is emerging as a vital contributor for her team this season.
3. Jordyn Bugg
Age: 19
Position: Defender
Club: Seattle Reign FC
Country: USA
Bugg’s defensive prowess has drawn comparisons to elite players, and she recently earned her first cap with the senior national team.
2. Gisele Thompson
Age: 19
Position: Defender
Club: Angel City FC
Country: USA
Thompson has positioned herself as a key player for Angel City, with standout performances and having secured five assists, showcasing her future potential.
1. Claire Hutton
Age: 19
Position: Midfielder
Club: Kansas City Current
Country: USA
As a primary defensive midfielder, Hutton is crucial for the Current and is on the path to a bright career, projected to represent the U.S. in future World Cups.
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