Former Reading FC star Fran Kirby has announced that she will leave Chelsea at the end of the season.
Kirby, who was born in Reading, progressed through the youth ranks at the club before making it to the first team in 2012 and scored an exceptional 68 league goals in 43 matches.
After her eye-catching performances with the Royals, Kirby was snapped up by Chelsea in 2015 and has spent nine successful years with the Blues.
With a total of 62 goals in 111 Women’s Super League appearances for the west London club, Kirby has won five WSL titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups and a Community Shield.
Kirby was also an integral part of the England Women’s side who won the European Championships in 2021.
“I always wanted to win growing up, so coming to a club that shared that ambition was something that I valued,” said Kirby.
“That is one of the main reasons I joined the club. I believe the club could help me do that.
“To leave with the trophies that I have won, with the team-mates I’ve played with – some of the world’s best players – it has been one of the biggest privileges of my life.
“The support I’ve had has been unmatched. When I had my illness, my injuries, that’s when I’ve made some friends for life. I will never forget that no matter how bad I felt during those moments, I always felt loved and supported.
“Growing up I never thought I could impact it so much. So I’m really proud I have been able to impact in a positive way and doing that for a club like Chelsea is something I’m really proud of.
“Hopefully, I leave the club in a better place than when I first came in. For me then, the job is done.
“I think we all know it’s the right time for something new.”
