Photo: Natalie Mincher/SPP
Katie Stengel is returning to the National Women’s Soccer League for the summer. The forward will join NJ/NY Gotham FC on loan from Liverpool until September 3. The loan will bolster Gotham’s roster and attack after the club saw six players depart for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Stengel is certainly no stranger to the NWSL. The Florida native has previously played for the Washington Spirit, Boston Breakers, Utah Royals and, most recently, the Houston Dash. Stengel was part of the 2020 Dash side that won the inaugural 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup. In all NWSL competitions, the forward has appeared in 96 games.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to join Gotham FC and help make an impact for this club,” Stengel said. “The NWSL has always had a special place in my heart, and I feel fortunate to spend some time back in the US in a competitive environment.”
Stengel left the league at the conclusion of the 2021 season to pursue a career in Europe. Now at Liverpool, she has proven to be a prolific attacker. Last season, she scored nine goals in 15 matches and helped lead the club to the FA Women’s Championship and promotion into the Women’s Super League. This season, she has scored 10 goals in 26 appearances across all competitions.
“We are excited to welcome Katie to join our strong core of attacking players,” said General Manager and Head of Soccer Operations Yael Averbuch West. “She brings prior experiences from both inside and outside of the NWSL, and she will be a great compliment to our style of play.”
With the absence of star striker Lynn Williams, Stengel provides a reliable attacking option for Gotham who will hope to pick up points in both the regular season and Challenge Cup competitions during the World Cup period.
Stengel is immediately available, pending receipt of International Transfer Certification (ITC), for roster selection for this weekend’s Gotham FC vs. Portland Thorns match on Sunday, July 9.
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