Georgia Stanway says she will always be a Manchester City fan as she confirmed her exit from the women's team to join Bayern Munich.
City Women completed their testing season on Sunday with an extra-time defeat in the FA Cup final to Chelsea, with Stanway starting the match at Wembley. The 23-year-old has made over 150 appearances since making her debut at just 16, and this season became the club's all-time top goalscorer, with 67 goals.
Now, after increasing speculation, Stanway has confirmed that she will leave the club after this season in an emotional message to supporters and her team. "I joined Manchester City with a dream of becoming a professional footballer," she wrote in a message posted on social media.
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"I have been grateful to call it my home for the past seven years. Today, I leave as the club's leading top goalscorer, with over 150 appearances and seven domestic trophies. A huge thank you to all the staff and team-mates that have supported me on my journey. And to the fans who have given me unconditional support throughout.
"I have made memories and friends for a lifetime. I'll be back as a fan if not a player!"
Later on Tuesday, Stanway was confirmed as joining Bayern Munich on a three year deal.
She told the Bayern website: "I've heard a lot about FC Bayern and it just feels right. It feels great to now be able to share the news and my excitement with the world. I can't wait to get going and play for such a big name club. After seven great years at Manchester City, I felt it was the right time for a change. Now I'm really looking forward to meeting my new teammates and everyone on the staff and working with them on the pitch."
“It just felt right from the very first conversation. I was absolutely convinced and my instinct told me that I belonged here. The club is so amazing -- the research they did on me, the way the club presented themselves to me and how they can take my game to the next level with me. FC Bayern has very big ambitions and I admire that a lot."
“The German league has always appealed to me. I've always admired the playing style of many teams and the winning mentality of many players. Competing against Germany in international matches was always a big challenge and very physical. I hope that by training and playing with these players I can take my game to a higher level."
City said: "Everybody at Manchester City would like to thank Georgia for her contributions during her seven years here and wish her the best for the future."
