Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Zambian forward Racheal Kundananji has been traded from Bay FC to Chicago Stars in exchange for a transfer fee of $700,000. This is the first big roster move made by Vlatko Andonovski as Chicago’s new chief soccer officer.
“Racheal is a proven goal scorer and a fierce competitor, and we’re thrilled to add a player of her quality to our roster,” said Andonovski in a press release. “Her accomplishments at the league and international levels are a testament to her standards and work ethic, and we look forward to seeing the impact she will make on our team as we build for 2027 and beyond.”
Kundananji initially joined the National Women’s Soccer League when she signed to Bay FC’s inaugural roster in February 2024 from Madrid CFF for what was then a women’s world record transfer fee. The contract runs through the 2027 season with an option for 2028.
Over her three seasons in California, Kundananji made 63 appearances, scoring 12 goals and assisting 11. She departs Bay FC as the club’s all-time leading scorer.
“I am grateful to Bay FC for bringing me to the NWSL and giving me the opportunity to be part of this club from the beginning,” said Kundananji. “I love playing football, and the love I have received from the club and the supporters since I arrived has meant so much to me. Thank you to my teammates, the staff and everyone who supported me during my time here. To the Bay FC fans, thank you for welcoming me and cheering me on. I will always appreciate my time here and the memories we shared.”
Internationally, the 26-year-old made her senior international debut with Zambia in 2018 and has since become one of Zambia’s leading goal scorers. She notably helped the team secure its first-ever Olympic appearance in Tokyo 2020, then went on to represent Zambia at the 2020 and 2024 Olympics. Kundananji also represented Zambia in their FIFA Women’s World Cup debut in 2023. She is currently with Zambia as they take on Uganda in a qualifying match for the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Chicago is able to afford Kundananji at least in part thanks to selling Jameese Joseph to the Utah Royals a month ago for 750,000 in intraleague transfer funds, with conditional add-ons up to $840,000.
“Joining a historic club like the Chicago Stars is an incredible honor,” said Kundananji. “I can’t wait to step onto the pitch and work hard to help the team. I’m super excited and looking forward to meeting our amazing fans, and to give everything I have for this badge.”
