The Chicago Red Stars today acquired midfielder Sandra Starke on loan from VfL Wolfsburg of the Frauen-Bundesliga. Starke will join the club following the approval of her visa application and remain with the Red Stars until June 30.  

“Sandra is a talented attacking player. She’s had success both domestically at the club level and internationally for Germany,” said Chris Petrucelli, Red Stars Head Coach. “She’s got excellent vision, outstanding technique and a strong work ethic. We look forward to her joining our squad.” 

“I’ve heard so many positive things about the league and I’m really looking forward to being able to make my own experiences in the NWSL,” said Starke. “On the one hand, there is the big audience and the atmosphere in the stadiums. In terms of sport, the league is a great challenge, especially regarding the US-American national players. And I also find the organization and logistics with away games in different time and climate zones very exciting. I’m looking forward to the USA in general, the culture, the people and the hype surrounding women’s football.” 

Starke is an attacking midfielder who is originally from Namibia, but plays with the German national team. The midfielder joined Wolfsburg in July of 2021 and has since amassed 33 appearances between Wolfsburg’s first and second teams. Since joining the German club, Starke has scored four goals and recorded two assists. Starke’s experience with Wolfsburg includes five appearances for the club in the UEFA Women’s Champions League tournament.  

Prior to joining Wolfsburg, Starke played for SC Freiburg and FFC Turbine Potsdam. The midfielder made 180 appearances with SC Freiburg, scoring 56 goals and recording three assists. With FFC Turbine Potsdam, Starke made 85 appearances between the first and second team and scored 36 goals. Starke has played on the German under-17 and under-19 teams in addition to playing with the full German national team; making six appearances and scoring one goal and making one assist.