Manchester City's summer overhaul has continued with another key player leaving the Women's team.
City have already lost Georgia Stanway to Bayern Munich, with Jill Scott moving on after nine years and Karen Bardsley retiring. On Wednesday, City confirmed influential midfielder Caroline Weir will depart at the end of her contract, and now another influential player has left in the form of right-back Lucy Bronze.
Named the FIFA Best Player of the Year in 2020, Bronze has been a key player in her second spell at City and helped them win the Continental Cup this season and the 2020 FA Cup. Those trophies add to the FA Women's Super League title in her first spell between 2014 and 2017, before she left for a spell at Lyon, where she won three Champions Leagues.
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Bronze will depart City at the end of her contract next month, with the club saying she is leaving for 'pastures new'. She has reported interest from the USA, and will represent England at the European Championships this summer.
In a message to Bronze, who made 111 appearances for the Blues, City said: "Manchester City can confirm that defender Lucy Bronze will depart the Club at the end of her current contract this summer.
"The defender will bring the curtain down on her second spell at the Academy Stadium and five years altogether in sky blue next month, having made 111 appearances and scored 14 goals.
"Manchester City would like to express their gratitude and thanks to Lucy for her contributions during her two spells at the Club and wish her all the best for the future."
In a statement, Bronze hinted at a move overseas, referencing her time 'back on home soil' at City. She posted: "It’s been great to spend the last two years back on home soil, although it has come with trials & tribulations, it has also come with accomplishments.
"Big thanks to my teammates for being there for me. And of course, to our supporters: you’ve been by our side no matter what and you’re playing such an important role in pushing the women’s game to the level we want it to be. New adventures await, see you soon Citizens"
Between Bronze, Weir, Stanway, Scott and Bardsley, the British quintet made over 700 appearances for City, with boss Gareth Taylor tasked with replacing their key positions, but also their influence and experience in the team.
City qualified for the Champions League after an injury-hit season restricted any title challenge, but won the Continental Cup and reached the FA Cup final, where they were beaten by Chelsea in extra time at Wembley.
