Lionesses star Lauren Hemp reveals why she signed new Manchester City contract despite interest from Women's Champions League winners Barcelona

The Lionesses star signed a three-year extension with City following another impressive Women's Super League campaign. Hemp admitted she feels at home in the north of England and made the big decision to stay despite Spanish giants Barcelona showing significant interest in the 23-year-old,

The City striker opened up on her thought process after signing a new deal, saying: "We're getting closer and closer and I know City is on an upward trajectory and it's an exciting time to be part of the club. That's why I stayed and signed a new contract. I knew we were going to be successful and it's only a matter of time before we start winning trophies and picking up league titles.

"It's such a special group to be a part of and the togetherness within the squad is second to none. I feel like we can bounce back from things so quickly and, having had some time to reflect over the past couple of weeks, I've got nothing but pride when I reflect on the season."

Securing Hemp for three more years is a massive boost for Gareth Taylor's side as they look to build on a positive campaign. The former Bristol City forward bagged 11 goals and tallied eight assists in the WSL in 2023-24 but it was still not enough to secure the title. She will need to be on top form again in 2024-25 if they are to take Chelsea's crown.

With the season over for City, Hemp will now turn her attention to England's upcoming matches. The Lionesses have a series of Euro 2025 qualifiers over the next few months as they prepare to defend their crown next year. The new domestic season will offer Hemp and City the chance to go one step further than their last campaign after seeing the title snatched away from them on the final day by Chelsea. But with Emma Hayes having departed the Blues, City will see the new season as a chance to assert their dominance in the Women's game.