Fran Kirby, who plays for the England national team, has revealed that she will be leaving Chelsea at the conclusion of the Women’s Super League season.

In a heartfelt announcement, Fran Kirby has revealed that she will be bidding farewell to Chelsea at the conclusion of the Women’s Super League season. The 30-year-old forward will leave the club as their all-time leading goalscorer, having netted an impressive 115 goals in 205 appearances.

Kirby joined Chelsea from Reading in 2015 and has since enjoyed a highly successful tenure, securing six Women’s Super League titles, five FA Cups, two League Cups, one Community Shield, and the WSL Spring Series during her nine-year spell with the club.

Despite battling through injury and illness in recent years, Kirby has still managed to find the back of the net five times in 30 appearances this season. Reflecting on her time at Chelsea, she expressed her gratitude for the club’s ambition and the opportunity to play alongside some of the world’s best players.

“The support I’ve had has been unmatched. When I had my illness, my injuries, that’s when I’ve made some friends for life. I will never forget that no matter how bad I felt during those moments, I always felt loved and supported,” Kirby shared.

Kirby’s departure from Chelsea marks the end of an era, as she leaves behind a legacy of success and a lasting impact on the team. General manager Paul Green praised her contributions, highlighting her integral role in the club’s triumphs and her status as the leading goalscorer in the modern era.

While Chelsea may have fallen short in the Women’s FA Cup and UEFA Women’s Champions League this season, they are still in the running for a fifth consecutive WSL title. Manager Emma Hayes, who will also be departing the club at the end of the season to take charge of the United States women’s national team, recently claimed that they were out of the race. However, with two matches remaining, the Blues are still in contention.

Their path to the title, however, is obstructed by Manchester City, who currently sit at the top of the league table. Although Chelsea have played one game less than their rivals, they find themselves six points adrift. A victory in their remaining matches is crucial if they are to secure another WSL title and provide a fitting farewell for both Kirby and Hayes.

In addition to Kirby’s departure, defender Maren Mjelde has also announced that she will be leaving Chelsea after seven years with the club. As the season draws to a close, Chelsea will be bidding farewell to two key players, but their focus remains on clinching the WSL title and ending the campaign on a high note.