Aaliyah Farmer has joined Chicago from Tigres UANL Femenil, where she played for a year after a successful college career at USC. Sjögren highlighted Farmer’s versatility, saying she can play mainly as a center back, but also possibly as a center midfielder.
Jameese Joseph is at the start of her career but has already become one of the top forwards in the National Women’s Soccer League and is in the pool for the U.S. women’s national team. She was one of the few bright spots for Chicago last season, which ended poorly overall. “It feels good that the coaching staff recognized my performance, despite our tough season,” she said.
As she aims to make a bigger impact on the field, Joseph is focusing on improving her game. Last season, an injury kept her out for nearly three months, but it gave her new insights into playing. “I could see myself in different positions when I returned,” she explained.
Sjögren commented that Joseph possesses many “world-class” traits and discussed the importance of her being a consistent contributor. “If she keeps improving, we will be talking about Jameese for years,” he noted.
Younger players like Joseph can rely on experienced teammates for guidance. She mentioned how veterans like Naeher and Mallory Swanson helped her ease her nerves before her first USWNT camp. Naeher’s decision to stay with the squad was significant to her.
Sjögren recognizes the need for a fresh start for the team. “When you become a coach, you have big ambitions, but you need to approach it step by step,” he remarked.
He is increasing the intensity of training in both gym sessions and on the field. “This is essential for us to compete at the level we aim for when the season begins,” he stated.
The preseason games will help test the revamped team. Chicago will play HB Køge on Friday, followed by matches against Alhama CF on February 11 and Boston Legacy FC on February 15.