Gary Gibson, producer of Soccer Over Gotham Podcast.
Date: 12/12/2023
Gotham FC announces that they have secured protection in the 2024 Expansion draft by making two trades with 3 teams.
Updated Gotham FC roster move tracker: https://www.soccerovergotham.com/post/2024-gotham-fc-moves-and-roster-tracker
Trade with Utah Royals for Mandy Haught
Compensation:150k in Allocation Money and Expansion Protection from Utah Royals
Significance: Mandy was the top prize in the expansion draft after Gotham fielded calls from big teams in Europe as well as both expansion sides. Gotham has Keeper Abby Smith locked into a long term contract. This does leave Gotham with one keeper on roster.
Trade with Bay FC for Ellie Jean
Context: Gotham FC, Bay FC, and Racing Louisville FC involved in Three-Way Trade; Gotham FC Trades Defender Ellie Jean and 2nd, 3rd round Draft Picks
Compensation: Expansion Protection from Bay FC
Significance: Ellie Jean was in the mix for a backup role at center back as a converted outside back. Would have battled Maitane Lopez and Kristen Edmonds for a starting center back role in 2024.
Thoughts:
Overall, Gotham FC's proactive strategy of acquiring protection and allocation money through trades allowed them to maintain their core roster and build towards future success without the threat of losing key personnel in the expansion draft.
Ultimately, a big win for the front office of the reigning champs. Gotham ultimately lost two high ceiling backups and kept the core of the roster intact. Gotham as proven last year don’t put much stock in the college draft as they are a team that is built to win now. Gotham is a destination team with not many roster spots open.
Now with the expansion draft in the rearview Gotham can move forward with signings.