Gary Gibson
Producer
12/18/23
Here are 3 NWSL 2024 free agents who could help Gotham FC bolster their roster, considering their current needs and strengths:
1. Tierna Davidson, Defender, Chicago Red Stars:
Strengthens defense: Gotham is losing, Krieger, Jean, Dorsey, Flores across the backline. Davidson is a proven, world-class defender who adds stability and leadership at the back.
Versatile and skilled: Both Lopez and Davidson are ball playing center backs who are good in the air. Davidson can also contribute to set-pieces.
Experience and composure: A World Cup and Olympic veteran, Davidson brings calmness and experience to Gotham's backline.
Tierna needs a reset. A regular national team player who has struggled with her club recently. Chicago is not a team built to compete and the defense was always under pressure. That can shake a players confidence. Being paired with a steady presence in Lopez can rebuild her confidence and get her back in the mix as the national team level.
2. Crystal Dunn, Midfielder, Portland Thorns FC:
Dynamic attacking weapon: Dunn makes any team better. Dunn, a prolific multifaceted attacker with pace and skill, would elevate their already potent attack.
Creates chances: Dunn's dribbling and passing would unlock defenses and provide opportunities for Gotham's other attackers.
Championship pedigree: A two-time NWSL champion, Dunn's winning mentality and experience could be invaluable for a team aiming to compete for the title again.
3. Sarah Gorden, defender, Angel City FC:
Fit: Sarah fits Gotham FC. She's a speedy center back who can put out fires on the backend. Which is a requirement for teams playing with a high back line. Similar reasons to Davidson. Gorden has excellent vision and passing range.
Fits: Sarah fits not only on the field but off it. Gotham FC is also filled with players who have fought for and are outspoken in multiple issues that have changed the course of women's soccer for the better. Gorden created Hoodspace. A non profit that addresses mental health challenges for girls of color through meditation and yoga.
Fits the fits: Fits on the field and off. Would also compete on the pregame fit runway. Her personality would fit the culture of the club inside and out.
Bonus returning free agent to target:
Allie Long, Midfielder, NJ/NY Gotham FC:
Depth and leadership: You simply cannot have a better depth player than Long. As witnessed in the last seconds of the championship game, Allie was seen coaching up fellow defensive midfielder Nealy Martin in goal on how to handle the looming free kick. (She told Nealy the highest probability was to her right. Which if hadn't been for the wall, Long predicted rightly and Nealy may have saved it anyway).
If Taryn Torres returns, that gives Gotham four young midfielders that could use Long's presence. Both Martin and Torres have been on the record starting how much they look up to Allie as an example of what a defensive mid should be.
Local connection: Another Long Island native who is also a mother, Long could help Crystal Dunn transition back to the area if she decides to come to Gotham.