No. 2 Gotham FC is losing a centerpiece, as the Bats announced they’ve mutually terminated striker Esther’s contract this week — a surprise development with major league implications.
According to a team statement, the Spanish international is leaving the NWSL entirely, temporarily stepping away from soccer to attend to personal matters back home.
“This journey has surpassed every expectation I had when I first came to Gotham,” Esther said, after tallying two NWSL championships, a Concacaf W Champions Cup title, and the 2026 Challenge Cup. “I will forever be proud to say that with this club, I won it all.”
The 33-year-old built a legacy in her brief tenure, departing New Jersey as the team’s all-time leading scorer with 33 goals across all competitions.
She’d been in terrific form this season, racking up four goals in her final three matches and six overall.
“We wish Esther and her family all the best,” said Gotham President of Soccer Operations Yael Averbuch West. “Esther has been a model professional on and off the field.”
