Houston Dash sign striker Clarissa Larisey

(image via Crystal Palace FC)

The Houston Dash have announced the signing of Canadian international Clarissa Larisey from Crystal Palace FC in England. The striker joins the Dash through the 2027 NWSL season.

The 26-year-old has spent the last four seasons in Europe. She played for BK Hacken in Sweden before joining Palace last season. “I’m excited to join the Houston Dash and be part of a club that’s building towards the future,” Larisey said. “From the moment I spoke with the team, I felt a real connection to their ambition and vision for the club. I look forward to a new adventure in the NWSL, one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and I’m ready to push myself and contribute everything I can to help this team succeed.” 

Larisey made her international debut for Canada on September 3, 2022. She has 12 caps for Canada’s senior national team. She has two goals for her national team.

Before joining BK Hacken and Crystal Palace she spent a season with Celtic in the Scottish Women’s Premier League where she won the League Cup and Scottish Cup. Larisey has also played for Valur in Iceland and Canadian clubs West Ottawa SC and Ottawa South United. She played collegiately at the University of Memphis.

“Clarissa brings a dynamic, proven goal-scoring presence to our team, and her experience across top European leagues and the international stage adds tremendous value to our group,” President of Soccer, Angela Hucles Mangano said. “She’s not only a talented and versatile attacker, but also a competitor whose character and drive align perfectly with the culture we’re building in Houston.” 

Larisey’s signing fills a big need in Houston’s roster at striker. Diana Ordonez has left for LigaMX and Messiah Bright was the only true forward on the roster. Larisey should come in and immediately challenge for a starting spot. Her zero goals in nearly 500 minutes at Palace is a concern but, perhaps a fresh start closer to home will help her find her scoring boots.