3 Gotham FC players who should be brought back for 2025

On Saturday, the 2024 season for NJ/NY Gotham FC sadly came to an end after they lost to the Washington Spirit in a penalty kick shootout.  The Bats could not score more than one goal in 120 minutes, highlighting an issue that was with the team for a good portion of the season.

Now, the Bats will look to 2025.  Ideally, they will build on the successful 2024 year.  The goal next season should be to finish in first or second, increase their points, and win another trophy, whether it be the CONCACAF W Champions Cup or the NWSL Playoffs.  There is plenty of talent on the roster already, and there will be some moves made during the offseason.

With that in mind, Gotham FC has eight free agents, with two players having options for the next season.  It would be great if most could come back, but there are some the team should immediately focus on.

Therefore, here are three Gotham FC players who should be brought back for the 2025 season, and possibly beyond.

3 players who should return to Gotham FC

1. Midge Purce

The easiest answer is Midge Purce.  Unfortunately, the Gotham FC forward suffered an ACL tear at the beginning of this season.  She was a definitive starter and was extremely impactful in the 2023 Championship run.  Last year, she had five goals and seven assists in all competitions.

In addition, the winger’s skills and ability to move up the pitch make her worthwhile regardless of whether she finds the back of the net or gets the assist.  She can always find a way to contribute.

Thankfully, there is a contract option for both Purce and Gotham.  The Bats will probably want to utilize it or offer a new contract, but will she also want to?  Fans can only hope that is the case.

2. Mandy Freeman

There is no question that Mandy Freeman has done enough to get a new contract.  She has been with Gotham FC for her entire career and should continue to play with the Bats.  She managed to prove she could be a starter and compete with Bruninha, Jess Carter, and Jenna Nighswonger.  Her versatility allows her to play anywhere along the backline.

Freeman does well defensively and has finally shown off her scoring ability too.  Moreover, even if Nighswonger and Carter win the starter competition for 2025, the defender would allow Juan Carlos Amorós the ability to rotate the backline throughout the season.  The depth of the squad was vital to Gotham’s 2024 season, and Freeman is a major part of that.

3. Delanie Sheehan

Similar to Purce, Delanie Sheehan has an option for 2025. Many fans will hope she is back next year. The midfielder is one of the underrated NWSL players and is always spot-on when she is on the pitch.  She makes the correct passes and can find ways to contribute.  She is not someone who will score too many goals, for she had two in the NWSL for Gotham FC this season. 

Sheehan is consistent with her performances though, for she can create and start attacking chances.  She does well with moving up the pitch and helping the Bats keep possession.  She also works well with Rose Lavelle and mostly any player who slots into the Starting XI.  There is a reason she has started most of the matches this year.   

It would be shocking if Gotham FC does not pick up Sheehan’s option for 2025.  Nevertheless, it must be put out there that they must bring her back.