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Dunn, Rodriguez out; Fleming in: Portland’s new era is starting to take shape

The Thorns’ offseason was defined by change, but the path forward in midfield looks clear

Jessie Fleming celebrates for Canada.
Jack Gruber-USA TODAY Sports

There’s a different feeling in the air in the Rose City this offseason. A Portland Thorns franchise that is so used to stability relative to the volatile world of the National Women’s Soccer League has undergone an upheaval on and off the field.

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New ownership for the Thorns is a welcome development by fans after nearly two years of protests and strife with Merritt Paulson following revelations of past abuse and enablement at the club. The recent closing of a sale to Lisa Bhathal Merage and her brother, Alex Bhathal, brought direction and finality to that saga.

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The three-time league champions are going to look a lot different on the field in 2024, too. Gone is Crystal Dunn, architect of one of the team’s most incredible moments in the 2022 semifinal, when she scored a game-winning volley in stoppage time only weeks into her return to the field following maternity leave. Dunn, who signed with NJ/NY Gotham as a free agent, spent three years in Portland and won a championship six days after that famous moment.

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