The Houston Dash completed the transfer of forward Rachel Daly to Aston Villa F.C. for an undisclosed fee, both clubs announced today.
“Rachel has been an integral part of the Houston Dash for seven years and she will be missed not only as a world-class footballer, but also as a driven and passionate leader on and off the pitch,” Dash president Jessica O’Neill said. “This transfer will result in Rachel being much closer to her loved ones, a request we wanted to make every effort to honor. We’re deeply grateful for the commitment and loyalty she’s shown to this city and wish her the best in her next adventure.”
Daly was drafted by Houston with the sixth overall pick in the 2016 NWSL College Draft. The 30-year-old finished with 116 appearances for the club in all competitions and led the team to the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup, the first trophy in club history. The forward scored 42 goals and tallied 12 assists for the team across seven campaigns in the NWSL.
"My time in Houston has been a journey. Not many people can say they have played at the same club for seven years. I am honored to have worn orange for that length of time,” Daly said. “I absolutely love this club and the city of Houston. I have created memories that will last a lifetime. I feel happy knowing that I am leaving this club in a much better place than when I arrived. I can’t wait to see the future success of the Houston Dash. I want to thank everyone, from the bottom of my heart.”
The Harrogate, England native scored in her debut and tallied an assist in the 3-1 victory on opening day against the Chicago Red Stars on April 16, 2016. Daly would add an additional 41 goals in all competitions during her time with Houston and leaves as the all-time leader in goals scored.
Daly was named to the league Second XI twice during her time with Houston in 2018 and 2021. She also earned MVP, Best XI and the Golden Boot at the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup. Additionally, Rachel was named to the NWSL Team of the Month four times and won the NWSL Goal of the Week award five times with the Dash. Her team awards include being named the Team MVP in 2021 and 2018. Additionally, she led the team in scoring in 2021 and 2018, plus finished tied for the most goals in the 2019 and 2017 seasons.
nternationally, Daly recently won the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 with England, the first continental title for the Lionesses. She started in all six games as an outside back and led the team to four clean sheets in the tournament. She also represented Great Britain at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The Dash will celebrate Daly’s recent triumph with the Lionesses and her contributions to the club at halftime on this Friday’s match at PNC Stadium. The team will also host a media availability at PNC Stadium with Daly at 6 p.m. on Friday, August 12.
