Gotham FC recently extended defender Kayla Duran and forward Katie Stengel as the new NWSL season nears.
Duran’s new deal will run through the end of the 2027 season, while Stengel’s contract will expire at the conclusion of the 2026 season. Both players previously had contracts that were set to expire at the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, which saw Gotham finish in third place.
After initially arriving at Gotham as a national team replacement player, Duran has established herself as a reliable defensive presence whom head coach Juan Carlos Amorós can trust. Yael Averbuch West, general manager and head of soccer operations, is encouraged by Duran’s growth and potential.
“Kayla has shown great quality in her time at the club so far,” Averbuch West said. “She continues to grow as a player, and we’re excited about the impact she can have for us moving forward.”
Duran stated how proud she is to continue her development with the reigning NWSL champions and 2024–25 Concaf W Champions Cup winners.
“I am so excited to be re-signing with Gotham FC,” Duran said. “Coming off my rookie season as an NWSL champion, I truly could not have imagined a better start to my professional career. This club and this team mean so much to me, and I’m proud to continue building here and representing Gotham.”
The 26-year-old took part in nine NWSL regular-season matches last season. She featured as a substitute in both the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds as the Bats went on defeat the Washington Spirit in the 2025 NWSL championship.
Duran earned Player of the Match honors when she scored her first professional goal on September 2 against Alianza in the Concacaf W Champions Cup.
Stengel: ‘I’m Excited To Continue This Journey With Gotham’
Stengel committed to a fresh extension on Tuesday.
The 33-year-old has continued to serve as a valuable veteran presence and clutch goalscorer for Gotham since she returned to the club on July 31, 2025.
Her dramatic 121st-minute match-winning goal against the Kansas City Current lifted the Bats to the semifinals. The goal tied her for the club record in individual (two) playoff goals.
“This club has meant a lot to me, and I’m excited to continue this journey with Gotham,” Stengel stated. “We’ve set a high standard here, and I’m motivated every day to help the team compete for championships.”
Averbuch West saluted Stengel for her tenacious traits and winning mentality.
“Katie has been a key contributor in our club’s success and brings a wealth of experience to our group,” Averbuch West mentioned. “She’s a proven competitor who understands what it takes to win in this league, and we’re excited to have her continue with us.”
Stengel has made 55 total appearances for Gotham across her two stints with the club. She has netted 10 goals and recorded three assists in all competitions.
Gotham’s 2026 NWSL season opener edges closer. The Bats will open their league campaign against Boston Legacy FC in the expansion club’s debut match at Gillette Stadium on March 14.
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