Sam Kerr has returned to National Women’s Soccer League side Gotham FC as a free agent, rejoining the club until 2030 after leaving Chelsea. The Australia international previously played for the New Jersey outfit between 2015 and 2017, when the team was known as Sky Blue FC, scoring 28 goals during that first spell.

The 32-year-old forward has signed a contract running through the 2030 season after the expiry of Kerr’s Chelsea deal. During a successful stay at Stamford Bridge, Kerr helped Chelsea secure six straight Women’s Super League titles, making 93 league appearances, scoring 65 goals and recording 22 assists in domestic competition.

Kerr’s scoring record in the Women’s Super League places the forward seventh on the competition’s all-time list, underlining the scale of Gotham FC’s acquisition. Gothamgeneral manager Yael Averbuch West underlined Kerr’s stature, stating: “Sam is one of the defining players of her generation and a game-changing talent who has consistently delivered at the highest levels of world football, Gothamgeneral manager Yael Averbuch West said. Her winning mentality, relentless competitiveness and ability to decide matches in an instant make her one of the most impactful players in the game. Bringing Sam back to Gotham is a landmark moment for our club, and we couldn’t be more excited.”

Kerr has already built a strong history in the National Women’s Soccer League, collecting two MVP awards and three Golden Boot titles. Across 124 NWSL matches, Kerr has registered 102 goal contributions, with 78 goals and 24 assists, numbers that highlight why Gotham FC have committed to a long-term agreement.

Although Kerr has agreed the Gotham FC move, the forward must wait before making a second debut in the NWSL. League regulations mean Kerr will only become eligible to play after the NWSL transfer window opens on 14 July, with Gotham scheduled to face Washington Spirit on 15 July.

The forward described the decision to rejoin Gotham FC as an important personal step, referencing the club’s role earlier in Kerr’s career. Kerr said: “I’m incredibly excited to return to Gotham FC and to this city, Kerr said. This club was an important part of my journey, and to come back at this moment, with everything Gotham has built, is really special. The ambition here is clear, and I’m looking forward to helping this team compete for trophies and create more history.”

Kerr’s return links past and present for Gotham FC, connecting earlier NWSL success with current ambitions. With a long-term contract secured, a proven record in both the NWSL and Women’s Super League, and public backing from club leadership, Kerr is expected to play a central role once eligible in mid-July.