Gotham FC head coach Juan Carlos Amorós plans to lean on the experience and technical qualities of veteran midfielder Savannah McCaskill as the Bats aim to repeat as NWSL champions.

When Gotham FC reacquired McCaskill on January 2, her arrival bolstered an already deep pool of talented midfielders. With Rose Lavelle, Jaelin Howell, Sarah Schupansky and Sofia Cook among central midfield options, it felt very much like the rich getting richer.

McCaskill made a considerable impact in her first match for the club since being traded from Gotham’s predecessor, Sky Blue FC, to Chicago Stars FC (then known as the Chicago Red Stars) in 2019.

Returning McCaskill Makes Impact in Gotham FC’s Win in NWSL Opener

The 29-year-old dictated the pace, fed teammates with long passes and made three interceptions in Gotham’s 1-0 season-opening victory over NWSL newcomers Boston Legacy FC at Gillette Stadium.

“Now it feels like Sav has been with us forever since she joined, we’re very excited about her,” Amorós said prior to the match. “Sav is a special player. Technically, she gives you a lot, she covers so much ground, and she is very intelligent. She understands where the spaces are and how to move in midfield to be effective going forward, keep control of the game and manage the tempo.”

Clearly, it will be easier for Amorós to prepare game plans with McCaskill performing for his side as a box-to-box midfielder. Previously, he was forced to contend with her as a challenging opponent over the past three seasons.

The 41-year-old head coach is excited to work with her over the course of 2026 and possibly beyond, should the club extend the 5-foot-4 midfielder’s contract. McCaskill is in the final season of a three-year deal that she signed with her previous club, San Diego Wave FC, in December 2023.

Amorós Praises McCaskill’s Ability To Control Games

“She’s a player we really liked when we faced her as an opponent, and now that we have her on our side, we’re very happy,” Amorós stated. “I think our fans are excited as well, and she’s someone who will bring a lot of happiness to the team and the club.”

Throughout the preseason, the 2026 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup and on Saturday, McCaskill has shown why Gotham general manager and head of soccer operations Yael Averbuch West made a wise decision in bringing her back to the club.

“Savannah brings experience and a competitive edge that has defined her career,” Averbuch West said in January. “Her familiarity with the league and our environment will be a valuable asset, and we are delighted to welcome her back to the club.”

McCaskill is another shining star within Gotham’s sparkling midfield galaxy. Perhaps her contributions will pay off in a third NWSL championship star being added above Gotham’s uniform crest.

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