‘A Calculated Risk’: Nealy Martin Embraces New Chapter with Angel City FC

In a move that has sent ripples through the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), defensive midfielder Nealy Martin has traded the East Coast for the West, joining Angel City FC from NJ/NY Gotham FC in a deal valued at $85,000. This transition marks a significant moment for the 27-year-old, who spoke exclusively with Sports Illustrated about her decision to seek new challenges and growth.

A Gotham Legend’s Farewell

Nealy Martin’s tenure with Gotham FC was nothing short of legendary. After her journey began with Racing Louisville in 2021 as an open tryout success, she quickly became a midfield anchor for Gotham following the 2022 season. Her pivotal role in the team’s remarkable “worst-to-first” 2023 NWSL Championship run cemented her status as a fan favorite.

Perhaps the most iconic moment of her Gotham career came during that championship match, where she bravely stepped in as an emergency goalkeeper after Mandy McGlynn received a red card and the team had exhausted its substitutions. This selfless act underscored her unwavering commitment to her team’s success.

Despite the deep affection for her former club, Martin felt a compelling pull towards a fresh start.

“It would have taken something really special to take me away from Gotham, because I loved the people there, the fans there, what we had built during my time there, but sometimes in your career you have to take a change to grow and get out of your comfort zone,” Martin told Sports Illustrated. “I think I found all of those things in Angel City.”

Embracing the Angel City Opportunity

Martin was particularly impressed by Angel City’s commitment to investment, state-of-the-art facilities, and the vibrant community in Los Angeles. This opportunity, she believes, offers the ideal platform to further her career and contribute to a new team with her characteristic “whatever it takes” mentality.

“I’m ready to do whatever the team asks me to do, I really just hope on the field, off the field, I can help them in any way possible,” Martin affirmed. “I’m ready and I’m excited.”

Martin is expected to be immediately available for Angel City’s upcoming match away at North Carolina this Saturday. Her arrival comes at a crucial time for the Los Angeles side, currently sitting in 10th place but just three points below the playoff line. A few crucial wins could quickly propel them back into contention.

Angel City Sporting Director Mark Parsons expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition:

“We are very happy to welcome Nealy to Angel City. Nealy is an NWSL champion and brings great character and leadership to our team. Nealy’s quality on the ball, ability to dictate play and relentless work defensively will be important contributions to our style of play. We are looking forward to her joining [manager] Alex [Straus] and the squad.’’

Strengthening the Squad Amidst Changes

Angel City has seen some notable departures recently, including star striker Alyssa Thompson’s historic transfer to Chelsea in the WSL for a reported fee near $1.5 million, as well as the transfers of defender Alanna Kennedy and midfielder Katie Zelem to WSL’s London City Lionesses. Martin’s versatility as a defensive midfielder and defender makes her a strategic and logical addition.

The team currently faces a goal differential of minus-6, having conceded 31 goals – the third most in the league. With a record of one loss, two wins, and two draws over their last six matchdays, Angel City is striving for improved results. Martin, who led Gotham FC in interceptions with 44 last season, could be the defensive anchor they need to solidify their backline and push for a playoff spot.

“I’m just excited to get to grow my relationships with the girls here, create a new set of friends, have a fresh start and help in any way I can,” Martin shared. “I don’t know any of [the players on the roster] personally, and I’m super excited about a fresh start, if I’m being honest. You can create an impression any way you want.”

A Journey of Gratitude and Calculated Risks

Despite the excitement of her new chapter, Martin remains reflective and deeply grateful for her time with Gotham. The goodbyes were emotional, but her teammates and coaches offered unwavering support.

“It’s hard to put into words,” Martin said of her time with Gotham. “Coming off the waiver wire to Gotham from being an open trialist at Louisville, to winning the championship with Gotham the next year, when I reflect on all of it, it’s pretty crazy to think about. Honestly, the only work I can think of is grateful. I’m super grateful for all of it.”

For Martin, her career has always been defined by taking chances, and this move to Angel City is no different. “There are opportunities that arise in your career that you don’t want to pass up, and this was one of them for me,” she explained. “It was a calculated risk that I’m willing to take, and I can’t wait.”

While she’ll miss Gotham’s bagels and, more importantly, its people, Martin is eager to embrace her new life on the West Coast. She finds the lifestyle perfectly suited to her personality and looks forward to the year-round outdoor activities for herself and her dog, Jax.

With a touch of nostalgia for what she’s leaving behind, Martin is ready to immerse herself in the Angel City community and be embraced by its passionate fanbase.

“It was really awesome getting to know the fans at Gotham and how they supported us—it’s so important,” Martin concluded. “So, I’m super excited because every time I play in LA, it’s always a sick game. The fans show up and show out, so it’ll be nice having them now cheering for me.”

For more NWSL news and updates, visit Sports Illustrated Soccer.