After nine years of unforgettable moments, England forward Fran Kirby will bid farewell to Chelsea when her contract expires at the end of the season. The 30-year-old leaves behind a legacy of excellence, having played a pivotal role in the club’s remarkable success in recent years.
Kirby’s tenure at Chelsea has been nothing short of extraordinary. With an impressive tally of 115 goals in 205 appearances, she stands as the club’s leading goalscorer in the modern era. Her contributions have been instrumental in Chelsea’s triumphs, including six Women’s Super League titles, five FA Cups, and two League Cups.
In an emotional video message to supporters, Kirby expressed her gratitude for the privilege of representing Chelsea and the opportunity to play alongside some of the world’s best players. She highlighted the importance of inspiring young athletes and expressed pride in her positive impact on the sport.
Kirby’s journey with Chelsea began in 2015 after her stellar performance for England in the World Cup. Since then, she has garnered numerous accolades, including the Football Writers’ Association first Women’s Footballer of the Year award and the PFA Footballer of the Year award.
Despite facing challenges such as injury and illness, Kirby’s resilience and determination have shone through. Her departure from Chelsea coincides with manager Emma Hayes’ decision to leave, marking the end of an era for the club.