Mary Earps has stated that the timing of her departure from Manchester United does not match up with her career plans, citing a lack of alignment with the club’s transition.

In a significant blow to Manchester United Women, goalkeeper Mary Earps has announced her departure from the club after the conclusion of her contract. The 31-year-old Lionesses goalkeeper cited the club’s “period of transition” as the reason for her decision, stating that it does not align with where she is at in her career. This news comes hot on the heels of club captain Katie Zelem also confirming her departure, marking a second major loss for the team in as many days.

Earps, who has been with United since 2019, leaves behind an impressive record. With 125 appearances, she holds the clean sheet record for the Women’s Super League (WSL) with 56. Her standout performance in the 2022-23 WSL season, where she kept 14 clean sheets, earned her fifth place in the Ballon d’Or voting, the highest ranking for a goalkeeper. It is no wonder that she has been linked with a move to Paris St Germain.

Taking to Instagram to announce her departure, Earps expressed her gratitude to the club and its fans. She wrote, “After 5 years of service to your great club, I have decided that it’s time for a new challenge. It’s a decision I’ve gone backwards and forwards on for some time, and is not one I’ve made lightly.” She also acknowledged the upcoming transition period for the club and explained that it does not align with her career goals.

Earps has had a successful international career as well. She was part of the England side that won the UEFA Women’s Championship in 2022, defeating Germany in the final and Brazil in the Finalissima. She also reached the World Cup final with England last year. Her outstanding performances earned her the BBC Sports Personality of the Year and the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year awards in 2023.

Manchester United released a statement expressing their gratitude to Earps for her service and wishing her the best for her future endeavors. With the departures of Earps, Zelem, and Lucia Garcia, head coach Marc Skinner will have his work cut out for him over the summer as he looks to reshape the squad.