Crystal Dunn is out at Gotham FC after having spent just one season with the New Jersey/New York NWSL team. The decision, announced on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, was described as "mutually agreed" by both Dunn and the club. Dunn, who joined the team as a free agent in December 2023, played 23 matches, recorded one goal, and provided two assists during her tenure.
Gotham FC's general manager, Yael Averbuch West, expressed her sentiments about Dunn’s impact on the team. "Crystal is an accomplished player who has achieved so much in her career," Averbuch West stated. "We wish her all the best in the next chapter of her career, and we thank her for her contributions to our club." Dunn's exit leaves fans and the organization reflecting on her brief but memorable time at Gotham.
After the announcement, Dunn took to Instagram to share her feelings about leaving the team and her time spent playing at home. "I can’t even find the words to express how incredibly sad I am. Though my journe continues elsewhere, I am at least grateful to have played at home in front of my friends and family for even a shortwhile. I’ll carry those memories with me always," she wrote. Dunn went on to express gratitude to the fans, stating, "Thank you to @cloud9goth and all of the fans for showing up with your energy and unwavering support. To my teammates, thank you for your kindness and your encouragement. The city of New York will forever be my home, and it will always hold a special place in my heart."
Despite her solid contributions on the field, details surrounding the departure remain unclear. Dunn's contract with Gotham FC was set to run through the end of the 2026 season. Sources revealed the team had considered trading Dunn within the league, including discussions with the Seattle Reign, but no deal came to fruition, reportedly due to the club's asking price for the veteran.
Dunn’s career prior to Gotham included significant stints at teams such as the Washington Spirit, North Carolina Courage, Chelsea, and Portland Thorns. She has enjoyed considerable success at nearly every stop, winning championships with the Courage and Thorns, including the NWSL title and the Women's Super League championship with Chelsea.
Internationally, Dunn has been instrumental to the success of the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT). Since her senior debut on February 13, 2013, Dunn has amassed 155 appearances and scored 25 goals for her national team. She was part of the victorious squad during the 2019 Women's World Cup and recently contributed to the U.S. team's gold medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Despite the uncertainty about her next steps, Dunn assured her fans of her excitement for what lies ahead. "The city of New York will forever be my home, and it will always hold a special place in my heart,” she wrote on social media. "Everything happens for a reason, and I’m ready to embrace this next phase of my career with passion, grace, and JOY."
Crystal Dunn’s departure marks the end of her chapter at Gotham FC, yet her accomplishments and impact within the sport will undoubtedly continue to resonate as she pursues new opportunities. Fans eagerly await news of where the accomplished player will land next, hopeful to see her shine on the field once again.