Gotham FC has announced the re-signing of forward Midge Purce for the 2025 season, ending her free agency after her previous contract expired in December. The move was confirmed Wednesday, and Purce has already joined her teammates in Spain as part of the preseason preparations.
Purce, 29, has faced significant challenges in recent years, notably missing almost the entire 2024 NWSL season after tearing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the opening match against the Portland Thorns. Despite this setback, her previous contributions have not been forgotten. In 2023, she played a pivotal role in Gotham’s championship run, earning the championship MVP title for her assist on both goals that clinched the title.
The re-signing marks a notable comeback for Purce, who has managed to remain active in her rehabilitation while not entirely sidelined. Alongside updates on her individual training sessions documenting her recovery process, Purce even made a high-profile appearance at Paris Fashion Week in January.
Her absence due to injury was particularly poignant, coming on the heels of her stellar championship performance and a well-deserved spot on the USWNT’s Gold Cup roster for the start of 2024. This confluence of achievements had positioned her as a key asset in the eyes of then-incoming head coach Emma Hayes, with potential implications for future Olympic preparations. However, the injury forced her to sit out the remainder of the season.
Purce’s return comes at a time when Gotham FC’s roster is undergoing significant changes. The team continues to feature talent across the attacking line, including the promising Esther and Ella Stevens, alongside the return of Jessica Silva and the off-season signing of Gabi Portilho.
Moreover, several notable departures—such as Lynn Biyendolo (formerly Williams), Yazmeen Ryan, Jenna Nighswonger, and Crystal Dunn—have opened up opportunities for Purce to vie for a starting role as she returns from her ACL tear.
Interestingly, Purce’s new contract is a one-year deal, reported by the New York Post. During a streaming show, she acknowledged that “other teams were offering more money and trades were on the table ahead of the final year of her contract with the New Jersey club.”
Ultimately, she decided to remain with Gotham for 2024 and has now committed to a fresh deal for 2025. This decision appears to be a strategic move, likely aimed at keeping her options open for 2026, a year that could bring further league movement with the planned start of two expansion teams.
Addressing concerns about recent roster changes, Gotham general manager Yael Averbuch West reassured fans in an open letter: “I’m aware of the outside narratives surrounding our roster moves. One of the most challenging aspects of my job is seeing these external perspectives contrast with the deep confidence and belief we have in what we’re building at Gotham FC.” With Purce’s return and the evolving squad dynamics, Gotham FC looks forward to a season of renewed strength and competitive ambition.