The Women’s Super League (WSL) team suffers another blow with the departure of the midfield player; goalkeeper Mary Earps is also anticipated to depart on a free transfer to Paris St-Germain.
Zelem, 28, has made more than 100 appearances for United since the senior women’s team was established in 2018.
A statement from Manchester United said, “Everyone at Manchester United would like to place on record their thanks to Katie for her excellent service and wish her the best of luck in the next phase of her career.”
Greater Manchester native, she joined United at eight years old, and she remained in the academy until 2013.
Zelem spent a season with Juventus after beginning her professional career there and then returned to United, where she played a key role in the team’s promotion to the WSL in their inaugural season.
Zelem led United to their first major championship last season, defeating Tottenham 4-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley, as well as a club-record second place in the WSL in 2022–2023.
But with Sir Jim Ratcliffe taking over football operations, the United women’s squad is going through uncertain times, and one of its most valuable players has left.
Zelem was a member of the Lionesses team that advanced to the 2023 Women’s World Cup final and has also earned 12 senior games for England.
