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NJ/NY Gotham FC is being loud in the offseason. They have already made numerous trades, including the one of Mandy Haught. Some players like Kristie Mewis have left the team, while superstar Ali Krieger has retired.
The NWSL Champions have also made the biggest signing of the offseason by signing Crystal Dunn. Many teams were interested in her services, but the call of home and the 2024 plans for the Bats led the USWNT player to sign with the club. She is not the only national team player who decided to make the move.
Tierna Davidson signs with Gotham FC
On Tuesday, Gotham FC announced the signing of Tierna Davidson. The defender is joining the NJ/NY side after playing five seasons with the Chicago Red Stars. The contract is similar to Dunn's, where she will stay with the team through 2026.
After missing most of 2022 with an ACL injury, Davidson returned this year to play in 24 overall games with Chicago. The center-back started in every regular season game that she played in. Likely, she will take over Krieger's vacated spot.
There is no question that after the recent roster moves, Gotham needs center-backs and other defenders. In fact, there were points during 2023 when midfielders dropped back into defensive roles, including the center-back position. Hence, Davidson's signing shows that the Bats are committed to building a top-class team.
Some clubs would think they do not need to rebuild much after winning the NWSL title the season before. But Gotham FC knows there is plenty of work to do. Sixth place in the regular season is not good enough. That is why they have made so many moves already. Based on departures, there should be plenty of more signings to come.
Nonetheless, Davidson is one of the top center-backs in the league. She is expected to be a starter in 2024. The question is who will start next to her. Will NJ/NY Gotham FC go out and sign another center-back? Or will a current player declare themselves a starter for the 2024 season? Only time will tell.