Shaw signs new Man City deal after contract U-turn
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Khadija Shaw, the Women's Super League's top scorer, has signed a new four-year contract with Manchester City, reversing a previous decision to leave.
- Shaw, who scored 21 goals in 22 games to help City win the WSL title, was reportedly close to joining Chelsea on a free transfer.
- Her decision to stay is considered a significant move for Manchester City, securing one of the world's best forwards.
Manchester City striker Khadija Shaw has committed her future to the club, signing a new four-year contract just days after it appeared she would depart.
Shaw, who finished as the Women's Super League's top scorer for the third consecutive season with 21 goals in 22 games, was instrumental in Manchester City's title win. Her contract renewal comes as a major U-turn, especially after discussions with the club had previously broken down, leading to speculation she would join rivals Chelsea on a free transfer.
I am still here, I am still hungry and there is no place I would rather be.
During the club's end-of-season celebrations, Shaw announced her decision on stage, stating, "I am still here, I am still hungry and there is no place I would rather be." She was subsequently mobbed by her teammates.
happy to announce I will be staying at the football club
This season has seen Shaw receive numerous accolades, including the Football Writers' Association women's footballer of the year award and the WSL player of the season. Her continued presence is seen as a "huge statement" by the club's director of football, Therese Sjogran, who described Shaw as "one of the best centre-forwards in the world."
Shaw's decision to stay was reportedly influenced by the strong support from City fans and her own feeling that the club is her "home." The new contract is understood to reflect her status as a top player. Manchester City is now focused on securing a domestic double, with the Women's FA Cup final against Brighton on the horizon.
It's a huge statement from City that we've secured the services of one of the best centre-forwards in the world
Originally published by BBC News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.