PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC and midfielder Mana Shim have mutually agreed to part ways, it was announced today.
“We have a tremendous amount of respect for Mana and we are extremely appreciative of her contributions to this club over the past five seasons and wish her all the best,” said Gavin Wilkinson, general manager and president of soccer for Thorns FC. “Mana has been presented with an opportunity to play abroad and at this stage in the season, with every player competing for minutes on a deep roster, we want to allow her to pursue that option.”
Shim, who will be placed on NWSL waivers, appeared in 74 career matches, the fourth most in club history, and made 46 starts, signing with the club ahead of the 2013 season after an open tryout. In five seasons, Shim, 25, helped lead Thorns FC to an NWSL Championship in 2013 and an NWSL Shield in 2016, tallying nine goals and nine assists.
“While I am excited to move forward with my career overseas, it is very difficult for me to say goodbye,” said Shim. “My time with the Thorns has been beyond anything I could have imagined. I would like to thank Merritt Paulson, Gavin Wilkinson, Mark Parsons, the staff, my unbelievable teammates, and the best fans in the world for allowing me the opportunity to play in this beautiful city. We have created so many memories that I will never forget. My heart is full of gratitude, and I will miss this place.”
Thorns FC play host to the Washington Spirit on Saturday, Sept. 2, at Providence Park at 12:30 p.m. (Pacific) as the featured NWSL Game of the Week on Lifetime.
