Gotham FC signed Gabi Portilho at the perfect time in her career | OneFootball

NJ/NY Gotham FC has been busy this offseason since the team was knocked out of the NWSL Playoffs in the semifinals by the Washington Spirit. Multiple players have departed the club, like Yazmeen Ryan, Delanie Sheehan, and Lynn Williams. There are also some new players, like Sarah Schupansky and Stella Nyamekye.

The numerous roster changes are expected to continue. As such, it was not surprising for Gotham FC to announce another new signing before 2025.

Gabi Portilho is a Gotham FC player

On Monday, the Bats announced they signed Brazilian international Gabi Portilho. The 29-year-old can play as a forward or midfielder, meaning the team once again brought in a versatile player. She often plays as a right-winger or in the midfield on the right side. The contract will keep the forward with the NJ/NY team through 2026. There is an option for 2027.

She was previously with Sport Club Corinthians Paulista Futebol Feminino, and joins Gotham FC as a free agent. With Corinthians, she scored 22 goals and made 96 appearances. She also has 26 caps for Brazil and recently shined for her country in the Paris Olympics. She scored one of Brazil's four goals in the semifinals to help lead her team to the gold medal game against the USWNT. Of course, the US won that game, meaning Portilho won the silver medal.

Arguably, Gotham FC signed the forward at the perfect time in her career. She had a superb season in 2024, especially with Brazil. After all, there was a reason she was nominated for the Ballon d’Or Féminin.

Portilho is currently in the midst of the height of her career and was probably highly desired by teams all over the world. The fact Gotham FC convinced her to come to New Jersey illuminates the work they are willing to do to bring some of the best players from around the world to the club. Moreover, after losing talented players to free agency or trade, they can replace those losses.

One can expect Portilho to often be utilized as a right-winger. If Midge Purce does not return to Gotham, then one can expect her to be the first-choice starter at this time. At the same time, Purce, while often utilized as a right-winger, can play on the left side if needed. If she does return, then Portilho could see more time in the midfield as well.

Again, the versatility of Portilho makes her another great addition to Gotham FC. She will likely get plenty of playing time and become a vital player for the Bats in 2025.