Beth Mead has signed for Manchester City, joining on a free transfer following her departure from Arsenal this summer.
The England international has penned a three-year deal until the summer of 2029 after nine years with the Gunners, in which she won the Champions League and multiple domestic titles.
Mead is also a two-time European Championship winner with the Lionesses. She finished the historic tournament in 2022 as top scorer and leading assist provider.
She is also among the WSL’s all-time top scorers with 59 goals – Man City already have two others in Khadija ‘Bunny Shaw and Vivianne Miedema – and has the most assists in the league’s history (54).
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Take a look at some of Beth Mead’s best goals for Arsenal in the Women’s Super League
Speaking about the move to Man City, Mead said: “I’m very proud to be here. Obviously, City had an amazing season last year and I am excited to start a new chapter here.
“I think the way City plays suits me really well, and I feel like it can get something extra out of my game.
“Speaking to the manager, I think it was a place where I think I can really fit into, help and bring a different dynamic to the team, so it was a no-brainer for me.”
Mead has signed a three-year deal (Photo by Declan Lloyd/Manchester City FC)
Director of football Therese Sjogran added: “Beth’s achievements in the game speak for themselves, so we’re delighted to bring her to the club.
“Winning the double last season was a special chapter in our history, but it’s one we want to build on in the coming seasons. Signing a player of Beth’s quality and calibre can only help that happen.
“She’s shown what it takes to consistently perform on the kind of big stages we want to regularly be competing at, so she’ll be a brilliant addition to our already impressive squad of players.”
Chelsea defender Niamh Charles is also expected to sign for Man City.
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In an emotional farewell, Beth Mead left the Emirates for the final time as Arsenal fans paid tribute to the club legend after nine years
Man City making statement of intent
Analysis by Sky Sports’ Charlotte Marsh:
After the FA Cup final, Manchester City boss Andree Jeglertz said he wanted to keep developing his team so they can compete again in upcoming seasons.
Signing a player with significant WSL and international experience, Manchester City are making a statement of intent.
Mead offers competition and depth on the wings, adding to the likes of Lauren Hemp, Kerolin and Aoba Fujino among Jeglertz’s options. It also sees her back in the same team as her partner, Miedema.
The 31-year-old found game time at Arsenal harder to come by in the last 12 months, and there were media reports she was close to leaving the Gunners last summer.
That has now come to fruition and with Champions League and Euros titles under her belt, gives Jeglertz a quality choice when he rotates as Manchester City add European football to their schedule next season.
