Manchester United Women captain Katie Zelem has left the club after her contract expired. The midfielder's departure comes after goalkeeper Mary Earps joined Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer.

What happened?

Katie Zelem played for Manchester United Women since the senior women's team was formed in 2018, making over 100 appearances. She captained the team to second place in the WSL in 2022/23 and to their first major trophy last campaign.

Why it matters for Manchester United Women

Zelem's departure, along with Mary Earps and Lucia Garcia, leaves the team with significant changes to address. Nikita Parris' contract is set to expire soon, and Grace Clinton has attracted interest from other clubs.

What comes next?

The team's new ownership, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has not begun planning for the women's team yet, focusing on the men's side first. | Stat | Value | | --- | --- | | League standing | 4th in FA WSL, 40 pts, 11W-7D-4L from 22 games | | Goals this season | 38 scored, 22 conceded (+16 goal difference) | | Title race | 15 points behind leaders Manchester City W | As of the current season, Manchester United Women are 4th in the FA WSL, with 40 points from 22 games, and a goal difference of +16. The team will need to adapt to these changes and find a way to move forward in the upcoming season.