Full Breakdown
Khadija “Bunny” Shaw Set to Leave Manchester City After Title-Winning Season
5/7/2026, 9:01:12 PM
Contract Expiry and Decision to Depart
Jamaican international forward Khadija “Bunny” Shaw will leave Manchester City when her contract expires in June 2026. Sources say Shaw expressed a desire to remain at the club, but negotiations stalled over the proposed length of the extension and other contractual details. The club was unable to match terms presented by rival suitors, leading both Shaw and the club to accept that she will depart at the end of the season.
Season Success and Negotiation Background
Shaw’s 2023-24 campaign was pivotal to Manchester City’s first Women’s Super League (WSL) title in a decade. She entered talks for a new deal in March and was reportedly close to an agreement before the discussions shifted. While City confirmed the championship after Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton, the timing of the contract impasse coincided with the club’s preparation for the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea.
Performance Metrics and Market Valuation
During the title-winning season Shaw scored 19 goals in 21 WSL appearances, positioning her on track for a third consecutive Golden Boot. She also received the Professional Footballers’ Association’s women’s players’ player-of-the-year award and the WSL player-of-the-season accolade for 2023-24. Reports indicate Chelsea is prepared to offer £1 million per year (approximately $1.4 million), a figure that places Shaw among the highest-valued forwards in the women’s game. Additional interest has been reported from Barcelona, several National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) clubs, and the London City Lionesses.
Official Statements & Responses
City officials and Shaw are described as “sad about the decision.” Shaw reportedly told the club she wanted to stay, while the club acknowledged its inability to meet the financial and contractual terms offered elsewhere. In response, Manchester City has begun scouting alternative striking options to replace Shaw’s scoring contribution for the upcoming season.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All three sources concur on Shaw’s goal tally, contract status, and the £1 million offer from Chelsea. No contradictory figures or timelines appear across the reports. Unresolved details include the specific length and salary structure of the extension City proposed and the identity of the players the club is targeting as replacements.
Future Outlook: Transfer Targets and Upcoming Fixtures
Chelsea emerges as the leading candidate to sign Shaw, though Barcelona, NWSL teams, and the London City Lionesses remain in contention. Shaw will face Chelsea in the Women’s FA Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, followed by Manchester City’s final league match against West Ham United the next Saturday. The outcome of those fixtures will precede the summer transfer window, during which the club must secure a new primary striker to maintain its competitive edge.
