Gotham FC news roundup: Maitane López, Sam Hiatt, and superlatives | OneFootball

2025 will be here before one knows it, and that includes the upcoming NJ/NY Gotham FC season. Mostly, the Bats had a successful 2024, finishing in third place in the NWSL standings and making the semifinals of the playoffs. Plus, brilliant football was played on the pitch. 2024 was great and 2025 has the expectation to be even better.

There are some stories to cover with the offseason in full swing. As such, here is the latest Gotham FC news roundup that includes departures and some superlatives.

Gotham FC news roundup: Two departures and more

Maitane López departs Gotham FC

On Thursday, Gotham FC lost another free agent to another team. However, unlike Delanie Sheehan's move to the Houston Dash, this was not shocking. The team announced Maitane López has departed the club.

The Spaniard joined the Bats in the summer of 2023 and was vital to the NWSL Championship run. Injuries gave López the opportunity to play in the midfield and backline. However, the acquisitions for the 2024 season saw a decrease in her playing time. She appeared in 13 matches during the regular season and still played at a high level.

Therefore, her departure was understandable. López probably wanted more playing time, which is why she signed with the Chicago Red Stars through 2026. Hopefully, she will have success in the Windy City.

Sam Hiatt also leaves Gotham FC

On Friday, Gotham FC announced that Sam Hiatt is also leaving the club after one season. The player joined prior to the 2024 campaign via a trade. She was utilized as depth in the defense and always performed well when called upon. In fact, she likely proved she could be a starter and would not get that chance with the Bats.

Hence, Hiatt will probably seek to go to a team where she can shine. After a solid season with the NJ/NY side, she deserves it. Hopefully, she will also have success wherever she ends up.

Gotham FC superlatives

Gotham FC announced their end-of-the-year superlatives on social media and had the fans vote for who they thought should win. Some categories included but were not limited to Best Dressed, Best Banter, Club Cheerleader, and Best Goal.

The team has slowly begun to announce the winners. So far, Kelley O'Hara has won Best Banter and Sheehan is the Most Underrated. Fans can watch Gotham FC's social media to see more of the winners.