Trinity Rodman’s Future in Question After Championship Loss
The NWSL season of 2025 has concluded, and NJ/NY Gotham FC emerged victorious for the second time in three seasons, defeating Washington Spirit 1-0 in the Championship final. As the league transitions into the offseason, attention turns to individual player futures, particularly that of Trinity Rodman.
The offseason typically brings significant movement across the league, with coaching changes and player transfers anticipated as teams prepare for 2026. As franchises evaluate their positions, each must address key questions to enhance their prospects going forward.
– Gotham’s Championship Victory
– The Challenge of Retaining Trinity Rodman
San Diego’s expected goals (xG) total of 32.0 ranked as the second-lowest among playoff teams and was surpassed by two teams that did not qualify. Despite scoring 41 goals, much of that was inflated by a decisive 6-1 win against the struggling Chicago Stars FC in October.
The Wave features talented players like Delphine Cascarino, Kenza Dali, and Gia Corley, but the pressing concern remains the need for a reliable striker to occupy the No. 9 position. Securing a top-notch goal scorer could elevate this team to championship contender status, given their existing ball dominance.
Seattle Reign FC: Seeking Offensive Solutions
This season, Seattle Reign FC recorded the lowest expected goals total in the league at 24.8, relying heavily on goalkeeper Claudia Dickey, who led in saves and goals prevented. The team finished fifth in the standings, narrowly missing a playoff home game.
The Reign’s future hinges on identifying an effective scoring option. Mia Fishel is seen as a long-term solution due to the significant investment made in her. Meanwhile, Jess Fishlock, at the age of 38, topped the team with six goals in just eight starts, indicating a pressing need for new offensive talent.
North Carolina Courage: Time for a Revamp?
Under former coach Sean Nahas, the Courage typically dominated possession but struggled in playoff scenarios. A commitment to this style led to disappointing results until a mid-2025 shift allowed for a more direct approach.
The team is currently in a state of flux, previously acquiring player Jaedyn Shaw only for her to see limited action. Nahas was dismissed in August, following which Shaw transferred out, and key goalkeeper Casey Murphy also left for Boston Legacy FC. Manaka Matsukubo excelled individually amidst these changes.
Heading into 2026, North Carolina requires a new coach and a strategy overhaul while looking to leverage its untapped potential.
Houston Dash: Building Around Key Players
Yazmeen Ryan emerged as a standout player during the offseason, significantly impacting the Dash’s performance. Alongside Delanie Sheehan, who joined from Gotham FC, Ryan was pivotal yet only managed to score four goals, insufficient for a leading scorer.
Houston has promise but must enhance its roster with additional impactful players as they embark on a rebuild after a challenging 2024 season.
Angel City FC: Pursuing Success
With only one playoff appearance since its inception in 2022, Angel City FC is at a crossroads. Coach Alexander Straus will lead the team in his first full season ahead of 2026, and playoff qualification is the bare minimum expectation from a franchise in a major market.
Acquisition of Hina Sugita should bolster the team, but the unexpected exit of forward Alyssa Thompson has complicated their offseason strategy.
Utah Royals: Ready to Compete?
The Royals have struggled with slow starts, making it challenging to compete for playoffs in both of their years since reformation. Last season saw a strong second half after a disappointing beginning that cost Amy Rodriguez her position.
For 2026, the team must focus on effective preseason preparation to avoid repeating a sluggish start.
Bay FC: A Fresh Start
After two turbulent seasons, Bay FC finds itself needing significant changes as it seeks a new head coach in 2026 following the departure of Albertin Montoya. The team has not won since June and must rebuild if it hopes to escape the bottom of the standings.
Chicago Stars FC: A New Chapter
With recent signs of improvement, including an impressive 5-2 victory over Orlando, Chicago aims to turn the page with new leadership under head coach Martin Sjögren. After relocating to play at Northwestern University, the Stars are looking to revitalize their strategy and bolster their ranks.
They need to reinforce their roster significantly, but the potential return of Mallory Swanson from maternity leave could be transformative.
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