Zelem and Lucia Garcia to leave Manchester United

Manchester United Women have confirmed the departures of midfielder Katie Zelem and forward Lucia Garcia at the end of their contracts.

Katie Zelem, who joined United in 2018 as part of the club's inaugural professional side, has been a key player over her five-year tenure.

She captained the team from her second season and made 161 appearances, scoring 32 goals.

Zelem was instrumental in United's record-breaking 2022/23 season, which saw the team finish second in the Women's Super League (WSL) and secure Champions League qualification for the first time. She also led the team to their first major trophy, the Women's FA Cup, with a 4-0 victory over Tottenham at Wembley.

"I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together," Zelem said. "Being part of United's journey has been an honour, and I will always cherish the memories and the support from the fans."

United also announced that Lucia Garcia will leave the club when her contract expires at the end of the month.

Garcia, who joined in July 2022, played a part in United's successful 2022/23 campaign. She made 60 appearances, scoring 16 goals, including two in the historic FA Cup final win against Tottenham.

Reflecting on her time at United, Garcia said, "For me, it has been two incredible seasons. I was so happy to have been a part of this team and to have helped the team. We are like a family. I am going to miss every single piece of Manchester United."

Garcia expressed her gratitude to the fans, adding, "I think one of the hardest parts is to leave the fans. I feel the support they give to me. I can feel they love me and I love them. But at the end of the day, I have to say goodbye. That's so hard for me, and the only thing I can say to you all is I love you from the bottom of my heart."