Angel City FC forward Christen Press is returning to the club, signing a one-year contract after coming back from a grueling knee injury and recovery last season.
Press, who was the first player signed in Angel City franchise history, made her remarkable return to the field last season after 781 days following an ACL injury suffered in 2022 and four surgeries.
She made her return to action in a Summer Cup game in August against San Diego Wave FC.
She described her comeback last season as “if I have come back from the dead,” adding that in October that she was starting to feel “like myself.”
Press was a free agent after last season.
“L.A., it was always you.” Press said in a statement. “This city’s strength and resilience inspires me, and I could not be more proud to represent L.A, my home city, when I step out onto the pitch this season.
“To this community of fans, your love and support has gotten me through a lot, we’ve been through a lot together and I could not be more excited to journey with you for another season.”
Press made nine appearances last season, scoring one goal, which came in her 100th NWSL regular-season game.
“We are excited that Christen is back home with Angel City for another year,” new sporting director Mark Parsons said. “She has a key role to play on and off the pitch with her being fully integrated into the team environment from day one of preseason. Her determination to return to the pitch after two years away is incredible and we look forward to seeing the positive impact she can make in the season ahead.”