Goalkeeper Mary Earps to leave Man United in another big departure for club's women's team

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — England goalkeeper Mary Earps is leaving Manchester United after a five-year stint, a third big departure for the club's women's team in less than a week.

Earps helped England win the 2022 European Championship and reach last year's World Cup final — where she was named best goalkeeper of the tournament — but said on social media Saturday that it was time for a “new challenge” in her club career.

“It’s a decision I’ve gone backwards and forwards on for some time, and is not one I’ve made lightly,” Earps wrote. “The club is about to undergo a period of transition, and unfortunately I don’t feel it aligns with the timing of where I’m at in my career, therefore I think now is the right time to make a change and embark on a new challenge.”

Earps did not say which club she will join next but she has been widely linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain. Her decision comes after United captain Katie Zelem and Spain striker Lucia Garcia also announced this week that they are leaving the club. All three players were in the last year of their contracts.

Last season, Earps was in the United side that beat Tottenham 4-0 at Wembley in the Women’s FA Cup Final to secure the team's first major trophy.

“Everyone at Manchester United would like to thank Mary for her fine service and wish her the best of luck in the next stage of her career," the club said in a statement.

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The Associated Press