Fran Kirby Announces Departure from Chelsea Women

Fran Kirby, the prolific forward for Chelsea Women, has announced her departure from the club after a successful nine-year stint. The 30-year-old has etched her name in Chelsea’s history books as their all-time leading scorer, with an impressive tally of 115 goals in 205 appearances across all competitions since joining from Reading in 2015.

During her time at Chelsea, Kirby has been a key figure in the team’s success, helping them secure a total of 14 trophies, including five Women’s Super League titles, four FA Cups, and two League Cups. Her individual accolades include two PFA Women’s Player of the Year awards and 70 caps for the England national team, where she has scored 19 goals and played a pivotal role in their Euro 2022 triumph.

Kirby’s decision to leave Chelsea comes as the club prepares for a new era under incoming head coach Sonia Bompastor, who will replace the long-serving Emma Hayes at the end of the season. In a heartfelt message to the fans, Kirby expressed her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her time at the club and reflected on the memories and friendships she has made.

As Kirby prepares to embark on a new chapter in her career, she leaves behind a legacy of success and inspiration for young footballers. Her impact on the game and her dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on Chelsea and the women’s football community as a whole. Fans will undoubtedly miss her presence on the pitch, but Kirby’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers.