Mary Earps sends touching message to departing Man Utd captain Katie Zelem as Lionesses goalkeeper closes in on transfer exit of her own

England international Zelem has seen it confirmed that a six-year spell with the Red Devils will be brought to a close in 2024. She joined United during their inaugural season in the Championship, as the Failsworth native returned to her roots having previously come through the club's youth academy.

Zelem was named Red Devils skipper in 2019, following the departure of Alex Greenwood, and held that role throughout United’s time in the WSL. She took in over 160 appearances for the club and helped them to FA Cup glory in 2023-24.

With her contract expiring, the 28-year-old is now moving on. She has created plenty of happy memories in Manchester, with domestic and international colleague Earps among those to be left singing her praises. The England keeper has posted on Instagram: “What a run, captain. You’re a United legend and you’re in the history books forever.”

Instagram

Earps is preparing to sever ties with United herself, as her deal is also coming to a close. The European Championship winner, who linked up with the Red Devils in 2019, is expected to sign for French giants Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent.