Angel City adds Katie Zelem for stretch run

Gearing up for the stretch run, Angel City has been spending the Olympic break adding reinforcements.

Last week, Angel City made a huge addition to its midfield, as they signed England midfielder Katie Zelem to a contract through the end of the 2026 season.

“Katie Zelem is a wonderful addition to our squad at the perfect time,” said ACFC General Manager Angela Hucles Mangano. She has honed leadership skills at high levels as the captain of Manchester United, is a skilled midfielder with an elite-level football acumen, and her desire to bring championships to LA was palpable upon first communication. We are excited to welcome her.”

Zelem joins Angel City after a decorated career across Europe. Zelem started her career with Liverpool in 2013, where she played four seasons, then moved to Italian side Juventus, where she spent the 2017-2018 season. However, it was her next stop, at Manchester United, where Zelem truly established herself. In her first season, she won the Manchester United Women’s Player of the Year award, then was named captain ahead of the 2019-2020 season. In her six seasons with Manchester United, she made 115 appearances. second most only to Ella Toone, and her 26 goals make her the third-highest goal scorer in United history.

“I’m thrilled to sign for Angel City and take on this exciting new challenge,” said Zelem. “The opportunity to compete in the NWSL, one of the most competitive leagues in the world, is a huge step in my career. I’m eager to test myself in a new league, against top players whilst contributing to the success of this ambitious club.”

Zelem has also earned 12 caps for the England Women’s National Team and was on the 2023 World Cup squad that made it to the final of the tournament.