Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett sign for Gotham FC | OneFootball

NWSL Champions Gotham FC have announced the signings of US Women’s National Team midfielders Emily Sonnett and Rose Lavelle.

The pair became free agents following the expiration of their contracts with OL Reign and have signed with the Bats through 2026. Both players started the NWSL Championship game in November against Gotham, with Lavelle scoring Reign’s only goal of the match.

Gotham recently brought in defenders Crystal Dunn and Tierna Davidson, whose contracts also run through 2026. All four new signings featured in the 2019 Women’s World Cup squad that lifted the USA’s fourth title, and they also collected bronze medals at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021).

The group join a stacked side anchored by experienced internationals. Notable names include fellow US National Team members Kelley O’Hara, Lynn Williams, Midge Purce, and 2023 World Cup winner Esther González.

Player Profiles: Gotham’s talent stockpile grows

The 28-year-old Lavelle was a breakout star during the 2019 Women’s World Cup. After slotting a low shot into the corner to seal a 2-0 win over the Netherlands in the final, she received the Bronze Ball for her outstanding play in the tournament. Capped 92 times, her technical ability and creativity have made her a mainstay in the USWNT ever since.

However, leg and knee injuries in 2023 limited her playing time in Australia last summer. After picking up two yellow cards in the group stage, Lavelle was suspended for the USA’s dramatic loss to Sweden in the infamous penalty shootout. The Ohio native has previously enjoyed stints at Washington Spirit and Manchester City.

Embed from Getty Images

Sonnett has also ventured overseas, with short spells at Bollklubben Häcken Fotbollsförening and Sydney FC. Nevertheless, the vast majority of the 30-year-old’s career has been spent in the NWSL, playing for the Portland Thorns, Orlando Pride and Washington Spirit.

During the 2023 regular season, Sonnett changed position from centre-back to defensive midfield. The Georgia native has made 83 appearances for the USA, where she still frequently plays at the back. Often praised for her quick reflexes and leadership, Sonnett has won two NWSL Championships and an NWSL Shield.

The pair’s extensive experience and work ethic will be of benefit as Gotham looks to defend the NWSL Championship title in 2024.

MORE from Her Football Hub: