Full Breakdown
Esther González Leaves Gotham FC for Saudi Arabia’s Al Qadsiah
8/24/2026, 8:27:35 AM
Transfer Overview
Spanish forward Esther González, a 33-year-old former World Cup winner, signed a contract with Saudi Women’s Premier League side Al Qadsiah that runs through the 2027 season. The move was announced less than a month after González and Gotham FC mutually terminated her contract on July 27.
Background & Recent Success
González joined Gotham FC in 2023 after winning the Women’s World Cup with Spain. She scored the winning goal in Gotham’s first NWSL Championship that year and helped the club repeat the title in 2025, finishing as a 2025 NWSL MVP finalist. She also contributed to Gotham’s inaugural Concacaf W Champions Cup triumph and the team’s qualification for the inaugural FIFA Women’s Club World Cup slated for 2028. Earlier in the year, González and her partner, Estefanía Cruz, welcomed their first child in January.
Official Statements & Responses
Al Qadsiah is coached by former Orlando Pride assistant Giles Barnes, who took over the Saudi side this summer after a fourth-place finish last season.
Data & Statistics
- Age: 33
- Contract length with Al Qadsiah: through 2027
- Gotham tenure: signed through 2027 before July 2026 termination
- Goals for Gotham: 13 in the regular 2025 season; decisive goals in both 2023 and 2025 championships
Verbatim Quotes
- “Gotham FC will always hold a very special place in my heart,” — Esther González, new head coach — Esther González, new head coach
González’s decision to continue her career in Saudi Arabia draws additional attention because same-sex sexual activity is criminalized in the kingdom, a legal context that contrasts with her openly same-sex partnership.
