On Sunday, January 18, San Diego Wave FC announced the mutual parting of ways with forward Delphine Cascarino. The French international expressed a strong desire to be closer to her family.
During her time with the San Diego Wave, Cascarino made a significant impact. In 18 months, she started 30 out of 34 games in the 2024 and 2025 seasons, scoring seven goals and providing nine assists. She was recognized as the NWSL Player of the Week in April 2025 after scoring two goals against Racing Louisville FC, and earned her first inclusion in the NWSL Team of the Month in May 2025.
Cascarino maintained a high level of performance throughout her tenure, ultimately earning a nomination for the prestigious NWSL Most Valuable Player award, which was awarded to Temwa Chawinga of the Kansas City Current.
Before joining San Diego Wave, Cascarino had a successful nine-year stint with French giants OL Lyon, where she made 134 appearances and netted 20 goals. On the international stage, she has been a key player for the French national team since acquiring her first cap in 2016, racking up 83 appearances and scoring 16 goals. Cascarino participated in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup but missed the 2023 tournament due to injury, though she later competed with the French Olympic team in 2024.
What lies ahead for Cascarino? Her desire to move closer to family has led to speculation about a potential move to a team near her twin sister, Estelle, who currently plays as a defender for West Ham in the Women’s Super League. Rumors have connected Cascarino to the London City Lionesses, but no formal announcements have been made yet.
