5 reasons why supporters should be thankful for Gotham FC in 2025

NJ/NY Gotham FC continues to impress, even after a season where fans and the players felt that the team was not good enough. The Bats had a 9-8-9 record in the regular season and went through periods of good and poor play. The lack of consistency was problematic, and it really felt like they would not be successful in the NWSL Playoffs after their final matches.

Yet, Gotham FC upset the Kansas City Current, the Orlando Pride, and the Washington Spirit, winning all three matches to win the NWSL Championship. So, since today is Thanksgiving, and it is a time to be thankful, fans can be grateful for the team and give thanks to certain aspects of the club and players.

As such, here are some reasons to be thankful for Gotham.

Reasons to be thankful for Gotham FC

The NWSL Championship: It is very easy to be thankful that Gotham FC won their second championship in three years. It was difficult to see the Bats winning, especially in the quarterfinal matchup with the Current, who had 65 points compared to the NJ/NY side's 36. However, they proved everyone wrong, ending the difficult season in celebration. Of course, fans will want them to be better in the regular season in 2026, but at least the club has another trophy.

Jaedyn Shaw: In complete honesty, the Jaedyn Shaw trade toward the end of the season was extremely shocking. But she has made a huge difference, especially in the postseason. The 21-year-old scored in two of the three games, including the winning goal against Orlando in the semifinals. One can be grateful that Gotham not only traded for her but also extended her contract.

The upcoming offseason should not be as crazy: Supporters can only hope that the upcoming offseason will not be as crazy and drastic as the last one. The roster changeover was insane, and even continued as the season progressed. Ideally, only a few players will leave the club, and the Bats will bring in more top talent to compete with everyone else. If that happens, then fans can give thanks to that.

Esther González: Another player to be thankful for is Esther González. The striker was responsible for winning quite a few of the nine matches that were won in the regular season. If she had not scored her 13 goals, then Gotham would not have made the playoffs. She was a vital member of the squad, and it is great that she will be with the team through 2027.

The future: After multiple departures in the past year, the club invested in many of the current players. Many signed contract extensions, and others are supposed to stay with the team for the next few years. While, as mentioned, there should be a few departures and new players, Gotham FC should retain most of the team for next year. Hopefully, this should lead to a stronger regular season. That is why fans can be thankful for the upcoming campaign.