As the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) gears up to resume its season, Gotham FC is welcoming back one of its key defenders, Jess Carter, fresh off a triumphant yet challenging European Women’s Championship campaign with England. Carter’s journey through the Euros was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by moments of adversity and ultimate victory, culminating in England’s dramatic penalty shootout win against Spain in the final.
Despite the celebration and the chance to bask in the glow of international success, Carter made a swift return to her club, underscoring her commitment and passion for Gotham FC. “I was just itching to get back. I want to be part of this team, helping this team win games,” Carter shared on Thursday, July 31, 2025. Her eagerness to rejoin her teammates ahead of their August 1 matchup against the Stars in suburban Chicago highlights the tight-knit bond within the squad and her desire to contribute immediately.
Carter’s Euros experience was far from smooth sailing. During the quarterfinals against Sweden, she was directly involved in conceding both goals that gave Sweden a 2-0 lead, a tough moment for any player on such a grand stage. Although she did not start in the semifinals and was limited to just a minute as a late substitute, Carter made a surprising return to the starting lineup for the final, playing center back. Her defensive efforts were crucial in shutting down a talented Spanish attack, including Gotham teammate Esther González, helping England secure their second consecutive European Championship title.
However, the tournament was marred by a darker side. Carter bravely spoke out about the racial abuse she endured during the Euros, a troubling reminder of the challenges female athletes still face today. She announced a break from social media to protect her mental health, hoping that her courage to speak up would deter others from similar abuse. “Hopefully, speaking out will make the people writing this abuse think twice so that others won’t have to deal with it,” she stated.
Gotham FC’s general manager, Yael Averbuch West, highlighted the club’s unwavering support during Carter’s international duties. “We were in regular contact with Jess while she was abroad to share mental health resources and to let her know there’s a strong contingent in New Jersey ready to fight on her behalf,” Averbuch West told The Post. She praised Carter’s resilience and performance, especially in the final game, noting, “Seeing Jess succeed went far beyond the game, and it was such an important moment.”
Gotham FC last took the field on June 21, securing their second consecutive win to climb to eighth place in the NWSL standings before the league’s six-week hiatus. The team is now poised to pick up where they left off, energized by recent roster moves. On July 31, Gotham announced the acquisition of forward Katie Stengel from England’s Crystal Palace for the remainder of the season. Stengel, a member of Gotham’s 2023 championship squad, brings valuable experience and attacking prowess. Additionally, defender Bruninha signed a one-year contract extension, securing her services through the 2027 season, reinforcing the team’s defensive stability.
While Carter’s club commitments are clear, her international experience also reflects the broader strength and unity of the England Lionesses. Among the squad was 19-year-old Arsenal striker Michelle Agyemang, the youngest player in the team that successfully defended their European crown in Switzerland. Agyemang described the Lionesses not just as teammates but as a family. She credited senior players like Manchester City captain Alex Greenwood for their mentorship and support, saying, “A lot of them took me in because I was the youngest in the team. They took me under their wing. I have only been around for a short time but they were so loving, kind and caring.”
Greenwood, with her 105 caps and a decade of international experience, played a pivotal role in welcoming the young striker. Her leadership helped foster a supportive environment, which manager Sarina Wiegman further emphasized by ensuring all squad members, including backroom staff, felt valued. Agyemang, who earned the young player of the tournament award, reflected on the collective spirit: “Everyone, no matter your role, the backroom staff and the staff behind the staff, everyone is valued in this team and you can see it with the way we celebrated.”
The emotional journey of the Lionesses was vividly captured in Agyemang’s reaction to their victory. Known for her more reserved demeanor, she admitted to shedding tears of joy, overwhelmed by the surreal progression from the tournament’s start to the final whistle. “I did cry a little bit because it was so surreal to see the change from the first game all the way to the final. At times it was difficult, but we made it and I was just grateful to God for that.” The moment Chloe Kelly scored the winning penalty was etched in her memory: “As soon as Chloe's penalty went in, I was just in disbelief. Jess Carter was hugging me and I was like ‘what is this, what is going on?’ It was just mad.”
The scenes of jubilation culminated with captain Leah Williamson lifting the trophy for the second time in three years, a testament to the Lionesses’ dominance in European women’s soccer. Agyemang summed up the experience, saying, “I have never been part of anything like that before.”
As Gotham FC prepares for the remainder of the NWSL season, the blend of international success and club ambition fuels a promising outlook. Carter’s return, bolstered by new signings and contract extensions, signals a team ready to build on its momentum. Meanwhile, the Lionesses’ Euro 2025 triumph continues to inspire, showcasing the power of resilience, unity, and the evolving landscape of women’s soccer.
