Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
On Wednesday, NJ/NY Gotham FC with National Women’s Soccer League and SL Benfica of the Campeonato Nacional Feminino have announced a new strategic partnership aimed at accelerating the development of women’s football and expanding their global reach. The partnership will provide Gotham FC with access to SL Benfica’s expertise and methodology with the hope that the collaboration will enhance the club’s competitive advantage in the NWSL.
“Gotham FC is one of the longest-running women’s football clubs in the country, and we are thrilled to showcase our experience, talent and youth. With women’s soccer growing rapidly in the United States, Gotham FC is proud to help support the growth of youth participation and fan engagement.” said Josh Murphy, Gotham FC’s senior advisor on soccer operations and soccer partnerships. “With SL Benfica, this partnership provides the opportunity to connect with the Portuguese community in our own backyard in New York and New Jersey, while positioning Gotham FC as a global brand. Our collective commitment will help advance the game and expand our reach in the US and internationally.”
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Among the various elements of this partnership is the establishment of a preferential deal that will enable Benfica to identify and recruit Gotham FC players to play in Europe. In addition to helping create future player mobility opportunities, the partnership also creates a range of communication opportunities that will allow both clubs to leverage the strength of their respective brands.
“Benfica has much to gain from this partnership as women’s soccer in the US is very advanced with millions of female association players. We believe that thanks to Benfica’s investments, we will reach a higher level of women’s football, and the partnership and relationship with the United States will contribute to this,” said Bernardo Faria de Carvalho, director of global expansion at Benfica.
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