Mary Earps appeared to bid farewell to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Manchester United project when she confirmed she is leaving the club.
The goalkeeper hinted she would not be able to achieve her current ambitions at a club undergoing a period of “transition”, and Ratcliffe sparked fury this week after admitting plans for the women’s team are “to be confirmed”.
Earps, a Euro 2022 winner with England, also posted her heartfelt thanks to United fans on Instagram after five years at the club.
He is out of contract and is on the verge of signing for Paris Saint-Germain after rejecting a new deal with the Red Devils.
“Dear United family, after five years of service to your great club, I have decided it is time to take on a new challenge,” Earps wrote.
Mary Earps expressed her appreciation for Manchester United fans and also appeared to criticise Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s project at the club.
The goalkeeper wrote that the club’s “transitional period” does not align with her professional goals.
Ratcliffe sparked controversy by saying plans for the women’s team were ‘to be confirmed’
‘It’s a decision I’ve been considering for some time and I didn’t take it lightly.
“The club is about to go through a transition period, and unfortunately I don’t feel it aligns with where I am in my career, therefore I believe now is the right time to make a change and embark on a new challenge.
United had been in talks for two years over an extension but were unable to reach an agreement.
Mail Sport have reported that Earps decided to leave after being unconvinced about the club’s long-term plans.
It has been a nightmare year for United Women, who finished in fifth place, their worst finish in the WSL.
Ruined by the loss of Alessia Russo on a free transfer to Arsenal, then hit by social media abuse of its stars over the Mason Greenwood debacle, with managers and behind-the-scenes figures walking out.
Last week, Ratcliffe admitted plans for the women’s team were “to be confirmed”, while reports emerged that the team will move from its new £10m facility to accommodate the men while work is completed at Carrington over 2024-2025.
Captain Katie Zelem left the club upon expiry of her contract, while Lucia Garcia joined Mexican club Monterrey. Nikita Parris is considering other clubs with her deal due to be finalised next week.
Earps lifted the FA Cup and has played every WSL minute for United since joining in 2019.
All in all, it has been a disastrous season for United Women, although they did win the FA Cup.
Earps added: ‘There are no words adequate, or enough, to express my sincere gratitude to all of you, but I hope what follows comes close to it.
‘I’m proud to have played every league minute wearing the badge over the past five seasons, and even prouder that we as a team have broken the record for the most clean sheets in a season in 2023.
“The icing on the cake was winning the FA Cup at Wembley, a trophy I always dreamed of winning, with all of you singing at the top of your lungs.
‘I could list many more favorite memories, but these in particular I will treasure.
“I’ve loved playing in front of you all, near and far, but especially at Leigh Sports Village and Old Trafford. It doesn’t seem real that I won’t be playing in front of you again next season, and I’m sad to say goodbye to you all.
“But from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for your incredible support over the years; through the ups and downs, I’m grateful for it all.”
‘To my teammates, there have been special people who graced our locker room over the past five years. I am fortunate to have been alongside all of you and I will support you.
This is Ratcliffe’s first summer at United, having completed a part-takeover in February.
‘Although this chapter at United has sadly come to an end, I take with me a heart full of incredible moments. Thank you for welcoming me as one of your own and allowing me to be part of your club.
‘I wish them all the best for the future and hope I can continue to make them proud in my next chapter.
‘GGMU, your number 27, Maria x.’