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2026 NWSL Previews Part 1: Chicago Stars, Bay FC, Utah Royals, Angel City

What changed in the offseason for the Chicago Stars, Bay FC, Utah Royals and Angel City, and how might they fare in the 2026 season, which begins on Friday?

A player dribbles the ball on a soccer field in a blue uniform
Oct 10, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Chicago Stars FC defender Sam Staab (3) juggles the ball during the second half against Racing Louisville FC at Lynn Family Stadium. Mandatory Credit: EM Dash-Imagn Images

The 2026 National Women’s Soccer League season kicks off on March 13, and we at The Equalizer are previewing all 16 teams for you. We’re kicking things off with the teams that finished in the bottom four of the 2025 regular season standings.

Chicago Stars

Last Season: 3-12-11 (14th place)

Head Coach: Martin Sjögren (1st season with the Stars)

Key Losses: Ally Schlegel, Ludmila 

Key Additions: Michelle Alozie, Aaliyah Farmer

About the offseason: Despite gaining a new head coach in Martin Sjögren, the Stars lost two key attackers this offseason. Forward Ally Schlegel joined the North Carolina Courage in free agency, while the San Diego Wave acquired Brazilian forward Ludmila.

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