Gotham FC news roundup: Yazmeen Ryan's trade is confirmed and more | OneFootball

The offseason has been extremely busy for NJ/NY Gotham FC. The Bats have seen the departures of players like Delanie Sheehan and Lynn Williams, they brought back Mandy Freeman, and have signed a couple of players, including Stella Nyamekye. There has been more change than expected, and some might be concerned about the roster turnover.

The concerns are valid, but many must remember that such turnover is common in the NWSL. So, let's take a look at the next Gotham FC news roundup that includes Yazmeen Ryan's trade and more.

Gotham FC news roundup: Yazmeen Ryan and the Champions Cup

Gotham FC confirmed Yazmeen Ryan's trade

In case you missed it, Yazmeen Ryan was shockingly traded to the Houston Dash. The Athletic confirmed the trade on Thursday while Gotham FC officially announced it on Friday. The Bats traded Ryan and "$80,000 in intra-league transfer funds" for "a league-record $400,000 in allocation money and a 2025 international roster spot."

It might have been a fair trade, for Gotham received the most allocation money in NWSL history. However, Ryan's rise in 2024 highlighted that she could be a player to build around. Instead, she departs the NJ/NY team after two seasons. It is understandable she wanted the move, but it still hurts to lose her.

While Ryan nor the club revealed why she requested the move, the player expressed her gratitude to gothamfc.com. "Playing for Gotham these past two years came with many unforgettable moments, victories, and challenges that have shaped me into the player and person that I am," said the winger. "I want to say thank you to Yael, Juan, and the rest of the coaching staff for bringing me to Gotham and supporting me these past two years in my growth on and off the field. I’m forever grateful for my time here and being part of the club’s historic seasons."

Hopefully, Ryan will continue to grow and be successful with the Dash.

The CONCACAF W Champions Cup will take place in Mexico

Gotham FC was one of the four teams to book their spot in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup semifinals. After a draw with Tigres UANL Femenil, they finished second in Group A. As a result, the Bats will play Club América Femenil in the semifinals.

On Thursday, it was announced that the Champions Cup semifinals, third-place match, and finals will take place at Estadio Universitario in Nuevo León, Mexico. This is the home of Tigres, so they will have the home-field advantage.

The semifinals will occur on Wednesday, May 21. Then, Gotham will play in either the third-place game or finals on Saturday, May 24. Since the NWSL schedule has not been released, it is unknown whether these fixtures will impact any games.

It will be interesting to see how Gotham FC does in the semifinals since the roster will look very different. Ideally, they will be able to compete for the trophy.