There’s a reason why soccer leagues around the world allow teams to sign international players. Beyond bringing cultural and tactical diversity, international signings offer a unique global appeal that boosts fan engagement and elevates competition. In fact, that’s just the tip of the iceberg—there are plenty more advantages. The NWSL is a prime example, boasting some of the most high-profile names in the game, thanks in part to its rule allowing teams a maximum of five international spots. These slots are even tradeable assets, letting teams adjust based on their needs. But despite this clever system, when a team has a player like Jess Carter, as Gotham FC does, they can truly consider themselves lucky.

Why, you ask? Well, the English-born defender and midfielder gives her NWSL club a distinct edge over the league’s 13 other teams. Knowing she was born and raised in England, you’d assume she takes up one of Gotham’s international spots—but here’s the twist: the Warwick native also holds American citizenship. Hence, instead of occupying an international spot, she fills one of the Bats’ regular roster slots—just like any U.S.-based player. Clever, right?

Well, if your reaction was “Wow,” you’re not alone. Former USWNT midfielder Sam Mewis had a similar response when she discussed Jess Carter on the latest episode of her podcast, The Women’s Game. “My dad’s American. His family is from North Carolina. He went to college in Ocean City New Jersey. All of my dad’s family are American so yeah I’ve got dual nationality. That’s been pretty handy coming out here. It’s my fun fact,” revealed Carter during the conversation.

Thanks to her American background, Carter revealed that she has been able to adapt to the States quite easily. “It’s been great. It’s made it really easy and helpful to transition here and has clearly helped Gotham as well to keep an open space for internationals,” added the England international, who arrived in the NWSL last year.

Prior to this, Jess began playing soccer from scratch in her hometown. Her journey began in 2004, playing for Warwick Junior until 2013 when she signed for Birmingham City’s youth club. Further rising through the ranks of the Magic City to end up in the senior team, it was in 2018 when Carter signed for Chelsea to enjoy a six-year-long stint.

During her time under Emma Hayes, the 27-year-old filled her trophy cabinet with five WSL titles, three Women’s FA Cups, two League Cups, and one Community Shield. Even on the international front, Carter was able to savor the taste of winning the 2022 Euros and 2023 Women’s Finalissima but enduring a heartbreak in the 2023 World Cup final.

Rest, her individual collection includes the 2017 FA WSL PFA Team of the Year, 2016–17 PFA Young Player of the Year, and 2023–24 Chelsea Women’s Player of the Year. Regardless, as surprising as it may sound, despite enduring such success in Europe, her heart had always been set in America.

Gotham FC star feels a ‘big connection’ with America

Yes, you heard it right. Despite being a British innit, the Gotham FC versatile has always found a home in the States. “I’ve always said this to my dad; I feel like I just had this big connection with America. I’ve always been desperate to come out here. Every time we come here on holiday, I just feel like this is home,” further remarked Jess Carter.

The former Birmingham product recalls that during her teenage years, she only visited her American family three times. But when she did—boy, was she drawn in. The beaches, the sunshine, and, more importantly, the energy stood out. Unlike Europeans, who she says aren’t as openly enthusiastic, the people in the United States left a lasting impression on her. All of it has always drawn Carter to this nation.

This was something that she even had to learn because back in England, of course, the culture is pretty much different. So overall, the move to Gotham FC has turned out quite favorable for her as well as for the NWSL side.