Defending National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) champion Gotham FC announced on Monday the mutual termination of Esther González’s contract. The Spanish forward has decided to take a temporary break from soccer to address personal matters in Spain.
González, a finalist for the 2025 NWSL MVP award, has made a significant impact on the team as its leading scorer, tallying six goals in the current season and an impressive 30 goals throughout regular season play, making her Gotham’s all-time top scorer.
Reflections on Her Time with Gotham
In a statement, González expressed, “Gotham FC will always hold a special place in my heart.” She fondly recalled her time with the club, stating, “From the moment I arrived, I felt something unique about this club: the people, the environment, the way everyone works together every day. I am grateful for every moment I have shared with my teammates, coaches, and everyone at this club.”
At 33 years old, González recently celebrated a major milestone by winning the 2023 World Cup with Spain, shortly before her arrival at Gotham. She played a crucial role in guiding the team to its first NWSL Championship later that year by scoring the decisive goal in the final. Last season, she further contributed by netting 13 goals during the regular season and aiding Gotham in clinching another title.
Significant Achievements with Gotham
Over her tenure, González played a pivotal role in Gotham’s success, contributing to the team’s victory in the first Concacaf W Championship in 2025 and securing a spot in the inaugural FIFA Women’s Club World Cup set for 2028.
Expressing well wishes for González and her family, Gotham’s President of Soccer Operations, Yael Apfelbusch-West, stated, “Esther has been an exemplary professional on and off the field, helping us win four major trophies and serving as a respected leader within the team. We would like to thank her for three wonderful years filled with world-class moments of brilliance. We will always support Esther wherever she goes.”
Recent Developments and Team Dynamics
The announcement of González’s contract termination came just nine days after she dramatically led Gotham to a 3-2 comeback victory against a two-goal deficit in the 80th minute. She was absent for the team’s 2-2 tie with the Portland Thorns, officially recognized as a personal matter.
Gotham has been navigating several changes, including the recent signing of forward Sam Kerr, who shares a similar role as González. Kerr joined the team on a free transfer in July, entering into a long-term agreement.
The team is also facing uncertainty regarding the health of defender Emily Sonnett, who suffered a non-contact knee injury shortly after the start of the recent match in Portland. Furthermore, Gotham’s head coach Juan Carlos Amoros is currently on paternity leave after welcoming his second child in May.
González reflected warmly on her time with the club, stating, “This journey exceeded every expectation I had when I first came to Gotham. Together, we accomplished everything we set out to accomplish. I will forever be proud to have won it all with this club.” She added a personal note about her family’s growth in New Jersey, expressing gratitude for the incredible memories she has made there.
