What should Gotham FC fans know about the newest signing Jéssica Silva?

Last Friday, NJ/NY Gotham FC announced the latest signing to help shore up the roster for the rest of 2024. The club signed Jéssica Silva, who was last with S.L. Benfica Women, on a free transfer. The Portuguese international will act as a depth piece in the attack while possibly fighting for a chance to get a contract for next year.

The forward, who predominantly plays as a winger, joins Gotham FC as part of her journeywoman career. She has played all over, including Sweden, Spain, Portugal, and here in the United States. Some of her former clubs include but are not limited to Benfica, Clube de Albergaria, Levante UD Femenino, and the Kansas City Current.

The fact Silva has played in the NWSL previously helps Gotham, for she knows and understands the league. She has also been a professional player since 2011. General Manager and Head of Soccer Operations Yael Averbuch West recognizes her experience will help Gotham. "Jéssica is a quality player with tremendous experience, who will contribute to our already high-level environment and through the rest of the season," she told gothamfc.com.

What to know about Gotham FC's Jéssica Silva

There is so much more fans should know about Silva. The new Gotham FC player was a part of Benfica over the last few years. She helped the team make the quarterfinals of the Champions League while her side won all three major trophies in Portugal this past season. She was not an everyday starter, but still a vital contributor.

As mentioned, she previously played with the Current. Although, it was for one season in 2021. Still, she made 14 appearances with Kansas City. It was not the most successful period for the winger, but again, the experience should help Gotham.

The forward is mostly known for her time with the Portuguese National Team. She has made over 100 appearances for Portugal and often starts for the team. Silva even started during the 2023 World Cup where she played against some of Gotham FC's USWNT stars: Crystal Dunn, Rose Lavelle, and Lynn Williams.

On a personal level, she is well-known in Portugal. She has over 702,000 followers on Instagram, which gives some insight into her life. Family appears to mean a lot to her while music might be one of her hobbies.

Silva joins Jess Carter as one of the summer signings. Mak Whitham was also signed this summer, but her contract will not go into effect until 2025. It will be interesting to see whether Gotham FC brings in anyone else before the summer transfer window closes.