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NJ/NY Gotham FC has been busy since the team won the NWSL Championship. They made some trades and let some players go. However, they were quiet in the signing department. Rumors were floating around, but nothing was happening.
At least, that was the case until New Year's Eve. Before 2024 could begin, the Bats announced the signing that every fan wanted, including here at Skyscraper Blues: Crystal Dunn is coming home.
Crystal Dunn has signed with Gotham FC
Gotham FC signed Dunn to a multi-year contract. The midfielder/ defender will stay with the club until 2026. The Long Island native will also play for the NJ/NY team for the first time. This allows her to play closer to home. Moreover, this should allow family and friends of the tri-state area an increase in opportunities to see her play.
Gotham probably signed Dunn to play more in the midfield. Often, her defensive work is completed with the USWNT. Therefore, she will enhance the growing midfield, enabling the Bats to continue their growth and quest to be the best team in the league. The talented player scored five times with Portland Thorns FC last season and helped lead them to a second-place finish. Ideally, she will do something similar or better with her new club.
Head Coach Juan Carlos Amorós is lucky to get one of the best free agents in this offseason. He had this to say about Dunn:
"Crystal is an exceptional player who can play anywhere at any time and have an incredible impact on the game. We are excited to have a player of her quality join us for this upcoming season as we look to continue to build upon the success of last season."Juan Carlos Amorós
Dunn will surely be one of the players that help Gotham build into a top-tier team. She will join the current stars, including Lynn Williams, Midge Purce, and the Rookie of the Year Jenna Nighswonger.
This is an exciting time for NJ/NY Gotham FC. Dunn is a player who was wanted by many teams. Some wondered whether she would go back to Europe. Thankfully, the pull to return home was immense. The Bats have signed one of the best players in the NWSL.