Sam Kerr returns to NWSL side Gotham FC on four-year deal

Australia striker Sam Kerr has joined National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) side Gotham FC on a four-year deal, returning to the club where she began her professional career in the United States. The 32-year-old forward announced her departure from Chelsea in May after her contract expired, ending a six-year stint with the London club.

A decorated Chelsea career

Kerr leaves Chelsea as the club's all-time top scorer in the Women's Super League (WSL), having scored 116 goals in 158 appearances across all competitions. She netted the winning goal in her final home game against Manchester United. During her time at Chelsea, which began in January 2020 after a spell with the Chicago Red Stars, Kerr helped the club win five WSL titles, three FA Cups, three League Cups, and the Community Shield. Her arrival at Chelsea was widely regarded as the biggest transfer in WSL history at the time.

The forward finished level with Fran Kirby on Chelsea's all-competitions top scorers list for the WSL era and was a crucial figure under former manager Emma Hayes. In 2023, Kerr finished second in the Ballon d'Or voting after scoring 29 goals in 38 appearances as Chelsea secured a WSL and FA Cup double.

Return to Gotham FC

Gotham FC, based in New Jersey and New York, was previously known as Sky Blue FC when Kerr played for the club from 2015 to 2017. During her first stint, she established herself as one of the league's top scorers, winning the NWSL Golden Boot for three consecutive years. Her last tally of 18 goals in a season stood as the league record until Temwa Chawinga scored 21 in 2024. Kerr remains the NWSL's all-time leading scorer despite leaving the league six years ago.

"I'm incredibly excited to return to Gotham FC and to this city," said Kerr. "This club was an important part of my journey, and to come back at this moment, with everything Gotham has built, is really special." She added: "The ambition here is clear, and I'm looking forward to helping this team compete for trophies and create more history."

Injury and personal milestones

Kerr's leading status at Chelsea was unquestionable before she sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in January 2024. The injury sidelined her for more than 18 months, and she only returned to full fitness in the second half of the current season, after Chelsea's title challenge had faltered. During her recovery, Kerr married former West Ham and USA midfielder Kristie Mewis, and their son was born in May last year.

Kerr also held the Australian W-League scoring record upon her arrival at Chelsea and still sits third on that list. Her return to Gotham FC marks a new chapter for the striker, who will aim to help the club compete for NWSL titles.