Morgan Gautrat Joins Newcastle United to Inspire and Lead

Morgan Gautrat, a double World Cup champion, just kicked off a new chapter by joining Newcastle United’s women’s team on loan from Orlando Pride. This move means a lot for both Gautrat and Newcastle United as they try to push their women’s team to the next level.

Let’s take a closer look at Gautrat’s journey, what drives her, and what this all might mean for Newcastle United’s women’s squad.

The Journey of a Champion

At 32, Morgan Gautrat has already done what most footballers only dream about. She owns two World Cup titles and played a huge part in Orlando Pride’s 2024 NWSL Shield win.

Since Houston Dash picked her first in the 2015 college draft, Gautrat has stayed at the top of her game. She didn’t just play—she led and set standards wherever she went.

From Orlando to Newcastle

Gautrat’s decision to join Newcastle United on loan until December caught a lot of people off guard. Newcastle’s women’s team sits in the second tier of the Women’s Super League (WSL), which is a big step down from Orlando Pride’s elite status.

But for Gautrat, this is a chance to help build something new. She wants to help Newcastle chase their dream of making it to the top tier of English women’s football.

Newcastle United’s Transformation

Newcastle United’s women’s team has changed a lot since Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund took over in October 2021. That investment shot them from the fourth tier of English women’s football up to the second, where they finished fifth in their first season.

Now they’re fully professional and making real progress. Gautrat’s arrival feels like a sign that they’re serious about their vision.

A Strategic Move

Ben Maitland, Newcastle’s head of recruitment and analysis, played a huge part in getting Gautrat on board. He pitched the club’s ambition and the chance for her to make history.

Gautrat brings experience and leadership—two things Newcastle needs as they chase promotion to the WSL.

Gautrat’s Motivation and Vision

For Gautrat, this move isn’t just about football. It’s a shot at diving into a new football culture and helping a project with real potential.

She’s genuinely excited to help Newcastle’s women’s team go further. Gautrat can’t wait to share her experience and see what they can accomplish together.

Embracing a New Challenge

Leaving Orlando Pride, a club in the hunt for the NWSL title, wasn’t an easy call. But the chance to join Newcastle’s ambitious project and get a taste of European football was just too good to pass up.

She’s looking forward to leading, raising standards, and hopefully leaving a mark that lasts.

The Impact on Newcastle United

Gautrat joining Newcastle United’s women’s team is a big deal. Her experience winning major titles and her leadership could make a real difference as the team pushes for promotion.

She also brings more attention and credibility to the team, which might just draw in more fans and sponsors.

Raising Standards

Gautrat wants to lift the standards within the squad. She hopes to help younger players grow and figure out what it really takes to make it at the highest level.

Her knowledge of handling big games and closing out matches could be key as Newcastle faces the challenges of WSL 2.

Looking Ahead

There’s a real buzz around Newcastle United’s women’s team as they get ready for the new season. They’re hungry for promotion to the WSL, and with Gautrat leading, they’ve got a fighting chance.