Gotham FC have signed Spanish international defender Leila Ouahabi through the 2028 season.
The club announced the signing at halftime of its match against Angel City FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
Ouahabi was released by the Chicago Stars earlier Sunday after the two sides mutually agreed to terminate her contract. She joined Chicago in June and made 11 appearances, including nine starts.
The 33-year-old defender brings extensive experience from some of Europe’s top clubs. She spent four seasons with Manchester City and two stints with Barcelona, winning five Spanish league titles, seven Copa de la Reina trophies and the 2020-21 UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Ouahabi has also earned more than 60 caps for Spain, representing the national team at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2022 and 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championships.
“I’m very excited to join Gotham FC and begin this next chapter of my career,” said Ouahabi. “This is a club with big ambitions and a winning mentality, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience to the group and competing for more trophies. I’m ready to get to work, help the team in any way I can and represent Gotham FC and its supporters.”
Gotham president of soccer operations Yael Averbuch West pointed to Ouahabi’s experience at the highest levels of the sport and her ability to contribute in multiple areas of the back line.
“Leila is an experienced defender who has competed and won at the highest levels of the game,” Averbuch West said. “She brings quality, versatility and a winning mentality to our back line, along with valuable experience in both Europe and the NWSL. We’re delighted to welcome Leila to Gotham FC and look forward to what she will bring to our group.”
Ouahabi joins a Gotham back line that has helped the club remain in the Shield race as the regular season enters its final weeks. Her arrival gives Gotham another experienced option as it looks to add another trophy to its collection.
