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This season’s winter transfer window was a whirlwind of excitement. Even at the eleventh hour, significant deals were finalized, surpassing expectations. Similar was the case for NWSL side Houston Dash, who, despite being in the midst of a potential sale, managed to offload their star player, Tarciane, to Olympique Lyonnais Féminin.
It was just around last year on April 23, 2024, when the Brazilian defender was signed from her nation’s domestic side Corinthians. Yet, the Texas-based club decided to sanction the deal for an “undisclosed fee.” The Dash, however, did mention on their official website that “the transfer fee is a team record and among the highest in NWSL history.”
“First, we want to wish Tarciane the best as she begins this new chapter in her career. This is also a historic milestone for the organization and a testament to the individuals who have worked tirelessly to forge a new path for the team,” admitted the President of Women’s Soccer, Angela Hucles Mangano.
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She also mentioned that even though it was difficult for them to part ways with Tarciane, the club remains excited about exploring and adding new talents to the roster. “Our goal is to make Houston a sustainable and consistent contender in the NWSL. We stayed true to that as we moved forward with this decision that was beneficial for all parties.”
Obrigado Tarci 🤘
We have transfered Tarciane to Olympique Lyonnais Féminin.
— Houston Dash (@HoustonDash) February 2, 2025
Notably, the 21-year-old made 11 appearances last season. She debuted on May 24 at Shell Energy Stadium, helping secure a 3-0 win and a clean sheet against NC Courage. Things were quite impressive for Tarciane on the international front as well. The center-back represented her nation in the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning a silver medal after losing narrowly against the USWNT.
Of course, Tarciane leaves Dash without a single silverware. Having won three domestic trophies with her previous club Corinthians, she’ll be looking to do the same with her new side. Then again, one wonders why both the center-back and the NWSL side decided to part ways. That too, just after a year. Was it because of the alleged situation that the club is facing?
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All about the potential sale of NWSL side Houston Dash
According to Sportico’s Kurt Badenhausen, Houston Dash majority owner Ted Segal has hired renowned investment bank PJT Partners to “assess potential investment options” for the NWSL club. Despite Sportico valuing the team at approximately $74 million, the Texas-based franchise ranked only 10th on the list of the league’s most valuable teams. Having generated just $7.6 million in revenue in 2024, the club’s financial struggles remain evident.
Acknowledging the increasing investor interest in the NWSL, Segal emphasized that now is the ideal time to seek additional resources to ensure the Dash’s long-term success. The owner did, however, reassure in a statement that this investment evaluation would not interfere with the team’s operations or soccer-related decisions. Furthermore, the EJS Group founder and president expects the review of these “strategic alternatives” to take several months.
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via Imago
NWSL: Houston Dash at Washington Spirit Oct 1, 2022 Washington, District of Columbia, USA Houston Dash Nichelle Prince 8 celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Washington Spirit in the second half at Audi Field. Washington Audi Field District of Columbia USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xAmberxSearlsx 20221001_gkb_si2_047
Notably, Segal had previously acquired a majority stake in both Houston Dash and the city’s MLS team, Houston Dynamo. Along with it came the operations rights to Shell Energy Stadium in 2021, in a deal reportedly worth $400 million. In fact, USMNT legend Tim Howard and NBA star James Harden are also part-owners of the women’s club.
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Either way, it remains to be seen how this potential deal goes through.
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Debate
Is Tarciane's move to Olympique Lyonnais a step up or a missed opportunity for Houston Dash?
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Is Tarciane's move to Olympique Lyonnais a step up or a missed opportunity for Houston Dash?
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