England midfielder Georgia Stanway has sent shockwaves through the Women's Super League by confirming she will depart German champions Bayern Munich at the end of the season.
Stanway's Departure Confirmed
The 27-year-old, a two-time European champion with England, will leave the Frauen-Bundesliga side when her contract expires this summer. Stanway joined Bayern from Manchester City in 2022 and has since captained the side, helping them to three consecutive German league titles.
In a statement, Stanway expressed her gratitude to the club but confirmed her decision to seek a new challenge. "I am incredibly grateful to Bayern. Thankfully, my time here isn't over yet," she said. "The decision to leave was incredibly difficult. I definitely didn't make it lightly."
WSL Clubs on High Alert
Stanway's announcement has immediately put the WSL's elite clubs on red alert, with the player free to sign a pre-contract agreement from this month. Arsenal have emerged as the early frontrunners in what is expected to be a fierce battle for her signature.
The combative midfielder, who has earned 87 caps for the Lionesses, started every game as England defended their European Championship crown in Switzerland last summer. Her proven quality at the highest level makes her one of the most sought-after free agents in world football.
Focus on Final Bayern Campaign
Before any move materialises, Stanway remains focused on ending her tenure in Bavaria on a high. She is targeting a fourth straight league title with Bayern and further progress in the Women's Champions League.
"I've made friends and memories here that will last a lifetime, and I've been able to develop enormously as both a player and a person," Stanway added. "I will give absolutely everything for Bayern and our sporting success until the very last day - just as I have for the past three and a half years."
Her impending availability marks a significant moment in the WSL transfer market, with several clubs likely to vie for a player of her calibre and big-game experience.
