ManU captain Katie Zelem is the latest star to leave the WSL club

Manchester United announced on Thursday that captain Katie Zelem will leave the Women’s Super League club upon the expiration of her contract, making her the latest star player to leave the club.

The midfielder joined United in 2018 and was part of the first professional team to win the FA Women’s Championship title in the 2018/19 season, securing promotion to the WSL.

The former Liverpool and Juventus player, who was named captain in her second season at United, made 161 appearances and scored 32 goals.

“Everyone at Manchester United would like to thank Katie for her excellent performances and wish her all the best in the next phase of her career,” the club said in a statement.

Zelem led her team to their best finish in the WSL in the 2022/23 season, when United finished second and qualified for the Champions League for the first time.

The 28-year-old, who also won 12 England caps, made history with United last season when they beat Tottenham 4-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley in May to secure their first major trophy.

The announcement of Zelem’s departure follows the club’s confirmation on Wednesday that striker Lucia Garcia will also be leaving the club.

England’s first-choice goalkeeper Mary Earps has been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain.

The departures come at a time of uncertainty for the women’s team following the takeover of football operations by minority owner Jim Ratcliffe, who said the focus so far had been on the men’s team.

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