🎉 Welcome to this week’s edition of Goalside Gossip! ⚽️

The new year kicks off with exciting updates in women’s soccer! Denver secures a historic $110 million NWSL expansion fee, solidifying its spot as the league's 16th team. The Houston Dash charts a new path with Fabrice Gautrat as their head coach, while Arsenal sparks debate with potential January transfers. We also celebrate the legendary Nicole Barnhart's retirement, honor Kate Faasse as the 2024 MAC Hermann Trophy winner, and relive the highlights of an unforgettable Champions League season.

Let’s dive into the action-packed start to what’s shaping up to be another thrilling year in women’s soccer! 🌟

What's in store this week:

• NWSL: Denver Joins with Record $110M Fee

• NWSL: Houston Dash Appoint Fabrice Gautrat as Head Coach

• WSL: Arsenal’s Bold Winter Transfer Plans

• News: Nicole Barnhart Says Farewell

• News: Kate Faasse Crowned 2024 Best College Soccer Player

Mile High Milestone:
Denver Joins NWSL

Historic Investment

Denver has officially become the 16th team in the NWSL, making its entry with a record-breaking $110 million franchise fee. This figure not only surpasses the previous NWSL record but more than doubles it, marking a pivotal moment in professional women’s sports. The investment is a bold statement, showcasing confidence in the growth of women’s soccer and its ability to compete with other major sports in the U.S. Denver’s commitment reaffirms that women’s soccer franchises are no longer seen as secondary but as key players in the sports industry.

The Competitive Battle for Colorado

Denver’s bid faced stiff competition from Cleveland and Cincinnati, two strong contenders for the league's expansion. Ultimately, Denver’s robust proposal, led by Robert Cohen, CEO of IMA Financial Group, won over the league. This victory highlights the city’s financial strength and strategic vision for becoming a prominent center for women’s soccer. The fierce competition demonstrates the growing demand across the country for a share in the expanding NWSL market, further solidifying the league’s rising prominence.

NWSL Growth and Market Impact

The NWSL has experienced exponential growth, with franchise valuations averaging $104 million in 2024, a 57% increase from the previous year. Denver’s entry into the league not only adds to this upward trajectory but is poised to act as a catalyst for further expansion. The significant investment and market confidence signal a promising future for women’s soccer as it gains more relevance and value within the professional sports landscape.

Challenges and Expectations for 2026

The team will debut in 2026, alongside the Boston franchise, and will initially play in a temporary venue while its dedicated stadium is under construction. The team’s early seasons will be critical for establishing a strong local fan base and fostering community engagement. With such a significant investment, Denver faces immense pressure to deliver results both on and off the field. Success in these formative years could position Denver as a model franchise, setting the standard for future league expansions.

Houston Dash Appoints Fabrice Gautrat
as New Head Coach

The Houston Dash has announced Fabrice Gautrat as their sixth head coach, bringing over 15 years of coaching experience and a history of success in the NWSL. Gautrat, who most recently served as an assistant coach for the North Carolina Courage, was integral to the team’s back-to-back postseason appearances and their 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup victory. His appointment comes after a thorough search led by Angela Hucles Mangano, President of Women’s Soccer for the Dash, who emphasized Gautrat's proven ability to foster player development and achieve sustained success.

Gautrat’s coaching career spans roles at the professional, youth, and international levels. Before joining North Carolina, he was an assistant coach for the Chicago Red Stars, guiding them to the NWSL Championship final in 2021 and the Challenge Cup final in 2020. A former professional defender, Gautrat’s diverse experience and multilingual abilities underscore his holistic approach to coaching.

Expressing his excitement, Gautrat highlighted the alignment of vision and values with Dash leadership, pledging to build a strong culture and make the Dash a consistent contender in the NWSL.

Arsenal Eye Another Transformative
Winter Transfer

Arsenal Women are poised to replicate their successful 2024 winter transfer strategy, with speculation surrounding a potential signing from the NWSL during the upcoming January transfer window. Last winter, Arsenal made a game-changing move by signing Emily Fox, who has since proven to be a pivotal addition. With Fox’s impact still fresh, Arsenal fans are excited about the possibility of another transformative transfer. ESPN journalist Emily Keogh suggests a "one out, one in" scenario, with Kathrine Kühl potentially departing for Everton as Arsenal secures a new winger. However, this decision has sparked debate among fans, considering Arsenal’s current depth in wing options with stars like Lina Hurtig, Mariona Caldentey, and Beth Mead.

While bolstering the wing is tempting, many argue Arsenal’s priority should be strengthening the midfield. Injuries to key players like Victoria Pelova, Kim Little, and Lia Walti before the winter break exposed vulnerabilities, forcing forwards like Caldentey into midfield roles. A potential solution could be signing Sam Coffey from Portland Thorns FC, whose playmaking ability and assist record make her a strong candidate to enhance Arsenal’s midfield. Whether Arsenal pursues another winger or shifts focus to midfield reinforcements, fans trust the club’s decisions and remain hopeful for a strong finish to the 2024–2025 season.

Who do you think they should sign? Tell us on instagram.

Nicole Barnhart:
A Golden Goodbye

Nicole Barnhart, a trailblazing goalkeeper in women’s soccer, has announced her retirement after an illustrious career that spanned over two decades. Known for her resilience and consistency, Barnhart leaves the NWSL as the all-time leader in regular-season shutouts (52) and was the league’s first Goalkeeper of the Year in 2013. She is also the only goalkeeper to win back-to-back NWSL Championships, guiding FC Kansas City to titles in 2014 and 2015, and reaching a historic milestone of 100 regular-season appearances.

Barnhart’s career began in the WPS with stints at FC Gold Pride and Philadelphia Independence before transitioning to the NWSL in its inaugural season. Anchoring defenses for teams like FC Kansas City and the Utah Royals, she became a cornerstone of every club she represented. Internationally, Barnhart earned 54 caps with the USWNT, winning 2 Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012. Her legacy as a leader, champion, and role model cements her place among the all-time greats in women’s soccer.

Kate Faasse Wins
2024 MAC Hermann Trophy

UNC junior forward Kate Faasse has been named the 2024 MAC Hermann Trophy winner, cementing her place as the best player in college soccer of 2024. Faasse is the eighth Tar Heel to claim this honor, joining an elite group of UNC legends, including Mia Hamm and Crystal Dunn. Her record-breaking season included leading the nation with 20 goals, an ACC-best 44 points, and eight game-winning strikes, propelling UNC to its 23rd national championship.

Faasse’s achievements this season are unparalleled—All-American honors, ACC Player of the Year, and TopDrawerSoccer’s Player of the Year title. While she has one year of eligibility left, her professional future is already shining brightly, with clubs eyeing her immense talent. Whether she returns to Chapel Hill or turns pro, Faasse’s legacy is secure as one of the most decorated players in Tar Heel history.