Despite the recent signing of a record-breaking deal with the National Women’s Soccer League, María Sánchez has formally requested a trade from the Houston Dash. The trade window and transfer window will both close this Friday at midnight ET, and potential suitors are limited in picking up her deal due to her existing contract with the league.
As a restricted free agent last offseason, Sánchez opted to sign a three-year contract worth up to $1.5 million with the Dash. However, despite this significant deal, Sánchez has expressed her desire to move on from the team. The Dash appear unwilling to grant her request, citing her existing contract as the reason. The NWSL has seen other players surpass this mark since then, including Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, Racheal Kundananji, and Barbra Banda who signed deals worth up to $2.5 million this offseason.
Sánchez has been with the Dash for four years and is a key player both for the team and the Mexican national team. She has previously played in Liga MX Femenil and even represented the Chicago Red Stars. The Dash have struggled this season, with just a 1-2-1 record and conceding the most goals in the league. Changes in coaching staff, including head coach Fran Alonso’s arrival in December and the firing of former coach Sam Laity and goalkeeper coach Matt Lampson, have marked the recent history of the team. Despite these changes, Sánchez remains committed to performing at her best for Houston until her contract expires or until she is traded elsewhere.
