Sam Kerr signs long-term deal with Gotham FC

Australian soccer star Sam Kerr has joined the National Women's Soccer League's Gotham FC on a long-term contract, marking a major return to the United States after a highly successful spell in England with Chelsea. The 32-year-old striker and captain of the Australian national team, the Matildas, signed with the New York-New Jersey-based club as a free agent, with the deal running through the 2030 season.

Gotham FC, the reigning NWSL champions, announced the signing on Monday, June 29, 2026. Kerr is returning to a familiar club, having played for the franchise from 2015 to 2017 when it was known as Sky Blue FC. Her move concludes a six-and-a-half-year tenure at Chelsea, where she established herself as one of the world's premier forwards.

During her time with Chelsea, Kerr won 11 major trophies, including five Women's Super League titles, three FA Cups, and three league cups. The club also reached the UEFA Women's Champions League final three times with her on the roster. Kerr scored 116 goals in all competitions for Chelsea, finishing level with Fran Kirby as the club's all-time leading scorer in the WSL.

In a statement, Kerr expressed her enthusiasm for the return. "I'm...