Mana Shim made her return to NWSL play on Sunday, being subbed on in NJ/NY Gotham FC’s game against Angel City FC.
“That was so fun!!! Thank you @GothamFC for believing in me,” Shim wrote after. “I love this team and can’t wait for what’s to come! And I have to say – I’m proud to call @NWSL home now.”
That was so fun!!! Thank you @GothamFC for believing in me. I love this team and can’t wait for what’s to come! And I have to say - I’m proud to call @NWSL home now. https://t.co/S0cozoHU9g
— Mana Shim (@meleanashim) July 3, 2023
Shim is one of two players who were at the center of a report in the Athletic detailing allegations of abuse against former Portland Thorns coach Paul Riley. Following that report, investigations were launched into the NWSL’s conduct, and Riley was fired as head coach of the North Carolina Courage.
The midfielder had not played since 2018, when she was with the Houston Dash, but had been seen sparingly training with players like former Thorns teammate Alex Morgan. On Sunday, Morgan wrote that Shim is “back and I’m so proud rn I could cry.”
Morgan was one of the players that helped Shim to go to the league with her allegations against Riley.
“Couldn’t have done is without you!!” Shim wrote in response to Morgan.
Couldn’t have done it without you!! 🥰 https://t.co/pHzxZqzYjA
— Mana Shim (@meleanashim) July 3, 2023
Last October, Shim was tasked to lead US Soccer’s safety taskforce.