Manchester City striker Khadija Shaw has agreed to a new four-year deal with the club, quelling rumors of her departure from the Women’s Super League champions this summer.
The Jamaica forward has been the WSL’s top scorer for three consecutive seasons, racking up 21 goals in 22 matches as City clinched the title for the first time since 2016.
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Chelsea emerged as the frontrunner to sign her after contract negotiations stalled.
However, Shaw, 29, revealed her new contract, which lasts until 2030, during City’s end-of-season celebrations, where she was awarded the player of the season trophy.
“I am still here, I remain hungry, and there is no place I would rather be,” she stated.
Shaw expressed her “happiness” in announcing her commitment to the club as she was surrounded by her enthusiastic teammates.
This season, she also secured the Football Writers’ Association women’s footballer of the year award and was named WSL player of the season.
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City will face Brighton in the Women’s FA Cup final on Sunday as they aim for a domestic double this season.
Shaw has recorded 26 goals and seven assists across 31 appearances in all competitions so far this term.
Since her arrival at City in 2021, she has achieved 117 goals in 137 appearances, making her the club’s all-time leading scorer.
“This is a significant statement from City to secure one of the best centre-forwards in the world,” stated director of football Therese Sjogran.
Analysis – Man City makes a statement before the transfer window opens
This unexpected contract reversal marks a significant moment in WSL history, as Shaw was close to departing City just days prior.
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With contract renewal talks failing, Shaw was set to be available as a free transfer, with Chelsea ready to extend a lucrative offer to her.
City supporters demonstrated their affection for Shaw, repeatedly chanting “we want Bunny to stay” during the club’s celebration of their first WSL title in a decade.
The situation unfolded amidst Shaw receiving individual honors, including the WSL player of the season and Golden Boot.
As media speculation intensified, City’s urgency to finalize a deal with Shaw also grew, and reports suggest the forward agreed to the contract within the last 24 hours.
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Shaw’s desire to remain at City was reinforced by the fans’ reaction to the prospect of her leaving, having referred to the club as her “home” in various interviews.
Sources close to Shaw indicate that she is pleased with the new four-year deal, which aligns with her status as one of the world’s premier players.
While celebrating City’s WSL victory at the Co-Op Live after-party last Monday, Shaw was asked to address the “elephant in the room” in front of 19,000 fans.
Despite appearing a bit shy, she responded, “I’m still here. I’m still hungry, and there is no place I would rather be. I’m happy to announce that I will be staying at the football club.”
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This deal is anticipated to be one of the most significant moves by any WSL club this summer, even before the transfer window has officially opened.
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Ben Haines, Ellen White, and Jen Beattie are back for another season of the Women’s Football Weekly podcast. New episodes drop every Tuesday on BBC Sounds, and you can find interviews and additional content from the Women’s Super League and beyond on the
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