NJ/NY Gotham FC has considerably strengthened its squad for the next NWSL season and beyond with a pair of important deals, subject to conditions being satisfied. The team announced today the acquisition of Yazmeen Ryan, a 23-year-old midfielder who started for Portland Thorns FC when they won the NWSL Championship on Oct. 29, as well as allocation money from Angel City FC in return for the first selection in the 2023 NWSL Draft.
“In Yazmeen Ryan, we have added a great, young talent who has already established herself as a highly effective NWSL midfielder,” said Yael Averbuch West, Gotham FC GM and Head of Soccer Operations. “At the same time, we have positioned our club to take an elite player with the second overall draft selection or utilize the pick as an asset to continue to make our roster even stronger. These two major transactions combine for another important step forward for Gotham FC this offseason.”
Prior to being traded to Gotham FC, Ryan was acquired by Angel City FC. Portland picked Ryan with the sixth overall pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft. The Thorns won the 2022 NWSL Championship, the NWSL Shield, and the Women’s International Champions Cup in her two seasons with the team. Ryan played 20 games for Portland last season, scoring two goals and dishing out five assists.
“I’m confident that my move to Gotham FC is an extremely positive one for my career, and I’m really looking forward to moving East very soon and getting started,” said Ryan. “This is a great opportunity for a fresh start and new chapter in my continued development as a player. I’m a big believer in Coach Juan (Carlos Amorós), what Gotham FC stands for, and the club’s vision to build a team that will compete for championships. Knowing how I fit with the team makes me so inspired. I am grateful that they showed so much faith in my abilities by making this trade for me. I’m excited to represent Gotham FC and I can’t wait to contribute to the success of the club! I’m ready to help make a difference. Let’s get it.”
Follow our Shea Butter Delegates Free Agency tracker for more moves during this open period.
