Soccer star Lloyd new minority owner at Gotham FC

Gabrielle Saulsbery//April 27, 2022//

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New Jersey native and World Cup star Carli Lloyd, far right, celebrates with the rest of the former Sky Blue FC team, now known as NJ/NY Gotham FC. – SKY BLUE FC

U.S. Women’s National Team legend Carli Lloyd signed on as minority owner of NJ/NY Gotham FC, the National Women’s Soccer League club based in Harrison.

Lloyd joins majority owners Tammy and Phil Murphy and minority owners Kristin Bernert, Karen Bryant and Ed Nalbandian.

“As my home club, Gotham FC has always been close to my heart,” said Lloyd, who grew up in Delran and played for Gotham FC (originally called Sky Blue FC) from 2018 to 2021. “It’s an honor to begin this new chapter of my soccer career surrounded by people who are committed to making this the best club and league in the world. I look forward to working with Yael Averbuch West, Andrea Pagnanelli, and my fellow owners to continue this organization’s impressive transformation.”

Throughout her career, Lloyd made more than 100 NWSL regular-season appearances. She played 316 times for the USWNT, scoring 134 times with 64 assists, and became a two-time World Cup Champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and two-time FIFA Player of the Year.

Carli Lloyd and the U.S. Women’s National Team celebrate their 2015 World Cup win Sunday. – FACEBOOK/U.S. SOCCER

“When Carli retired last season, we always envisioned her remaining a part of Gotham FC and we are thrilled to make that vision a reality,” said Tammy Murphy, club chair. “Her unique perspective as a former player and world champion will be a tremendous asset as we continue to push this club forward.”

In her new role, Lloyd will act as a consultant and advisor to Gotham FC to help boost the club’s profile in local, national and international markets. Additionally, she’ll work with Murphy, Managing Partner Ed Nalbandian, and club leadership on club initiatives designed to promote the club and support its players.

“It’s a privilege to welcome an all-time great into our ownership ranks,” said Nalbandian. “Carli played such an important role in the evolution of our club as a player thanks to her work-ethic, passion, and unrivaled desire to win. Those traits will make her an invaluable addition to our leadership, and I cannot wait to work closely with her.”