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San Diego Wave FC have secured a key piece of their future, signing Melanie Barcenas to a new contract through the 2026 season.
A San Diego native, Barcenas has been part of the Wave since 2023 and continues her development with her hometown club after becoming one of the youngest players in league history to turn professional. Now 18, she remains one of the most technically gifted young attackers in the NWSL pipeline.
Since making her professional debut, Barcenas has featured regularly across competitions, gaining experience both on the wing and in advanced midfield roles.
Her pace, close control, and willingness to take on defenders have made her a dynamic option in the attacking third, even as her role has continued to evolve at the professional level.
Barcenas has also contributed to some of the most successful moments in club history, including the Wave’s 2023 NWSL Shield-winning season.
Internationally, she continues to be a fixture within the U.S. youth national team setup, adding valuable high-level experience as she progresses through the early stages of her career.
Re-signing Barcenas reflects the Wave’s commitment to developing local talent and maintaining continuity as the club reshapes its roster heading into the 2026 season.
