Esther González, the 33-year-old Spanish striker, has made a surprising career move by signing with Al Qadsiah of the Saudi Women’s Premier League. This announcement came just weeks after she and Gotham FC mutually agreed to part ways.
On July 27th, González and Gotham FC ended their contract by mutual consent, with the club stating personal reasons in Spain as the cause. The forward recently became a mother, welcoming her first child with partner Estefanía Cruz, which led many to believe she would take a break from professional soccer.
Unexpected Turn Following Departure from Gotham FC
Contrary to initial expectations, González’s decision to join Al Qadsiah occurred rapidly. According to journalist Jenna Tonelli of Sports Illustrated, league sources revealed that Gotham FC did not anticipate Esther signing with another club so soon after her departure. Communications from Gotham suggested that she was leaving primarily to manage personal commitments in Spain, making this swift move to Saudi Arabia unexpected.
The transfer highlights a rare and notable shift, as González leaves behind the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) to compete in the emerging Saudi Women’s Premier League.