Gotham FC Secures Spanish Defender Leila Ouahabi Through 2028

FolioPitch.com – 06 October 2026 | In a move that bolsters their defensive line for years to come, Gotham FC has officially announced that Gotham adds Spanish defender Leila Ouahabi through 2028. The club revealed the signing during halftime of Sunday’s match against Angel City FC, much to the delight of the home crowd. The 33-year-old Spanish international brings a wealth of experience from top European leagues and will don the number 4 jersey for the New York-based side.

The announcement came on the same day that Ouahabi and Chicago Stars FC mutually agreed to part ways. Ouahabi had only joined Chicago earlier this season, making her debut on July 18 against Angel City. Despite the short stint, she started nine of her 11 appearances for the club, showcasing her quality and professionalism. Her departure from Chicago was amicable, paving the way for her move to Gotham.

Before her brief NWSL spell, Ouahabi enjoyed a successful four-season run at Manchester City. She was instrumental in the club’s WSL and FA Cup-winning campaign in 2025-26, making over 100 appearances across all competitions. Her time in England further solidified her reputation as a reliable and technically gifted left-back.

However, Ouahabi’s roots in top-flight football run deep. She spent two separate stints with Barcelona, where she amassed an impressive trophy haul: five Spanish league titles and seven Copa de la Reina trophies. She was also a key member of Barcelona’s 2020-21 UEFA Women’s Champions League-winning team, which completed a historic continental treble that season. Such pedigree is exactly what Gotham hopes will elevate their squad.

At the international level, Ouahabi has earned more than 60 caps for Spain. She represented her country at the 2019 World Cup, as well as Euro 2022 and Euro 2025. Her experience on the biggest stages will be invaluable for a Gotham side looking to compete for silverware.

The news that Gotham adds Spanish defender Leila Ouahabi through 2028 signals the club’s ambition to build a roster capable of sustained success. With her contract running through the 2028 NWSL season, Ouahabi will have ample time to make her mark in the league and help Gotham achieve its goals.

For Ouahabi, the move represents a new chapter in a distinguished career. After proving herself in Spain and England, she now has the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in the United States. Gotham fans will be eager to see her link up with her new teammates and bring her winning mentality to the backline.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Leila Ouahabi is a statement of intent from Gotham FC. By securing a player of her caliber on a long-term deal, the club addresses a key area of need while adding a proven winner to the locker room. As the NWSL continues to attract global talent, Gotham adds Spanish defender Leila Ouahabi through 2028, reinforcing their commitment to excellence and their pursuit of championships.