Katie McCabe has spoken publicly about her future as her contract approaches its end.
Katie McCabe has effectively confirmed her time at Arsenal will end this summer, stating she will see out the remainder of her contract before deciding her next move.
The Ireland captain has spent more than a decade in north London, aside from a 2017 loan spell at Glasgow City, and has grown from a fringe player into one of the defining figures of the modern Arsenal Women’s era.
With a contract that expires in the summer, McCabe was asked if there is interest from other clubs. “Yes, there’s been interest,” she said.
“I’m into my last my last six months (of contract) so technically you’re allowed to speak to others. I’m not part of those conversations. I’ve left those to my agent but there has been interest.
“Obviously, my full focus is on these games coming up with Ireland. The Arsenal fans know how committed I am to them and to the club. I think I’ve shown that over the last 10 years. I’ve given absolutely everything. But in terms of where I’ll be at, I’m going to see out the next few months and then go from there.”
McCabe joined Arsenal in December 2015 from Shelbourne, having rejected interest from Glasgow City, Chelsea and Manchester City. The early period was challenging, with limited opportunities and a temporary move back to Scotland, but under Joe Montemurro she was converted into a left back and claimed her place.
From 2018-19 onwards she became a fixture in the side, playing more minutes than any other player as Arsenal secured the Women’s Super League title, adding the FA Cup and League Cup before lifting the Women’s Champions League last season.
More than 200 appearances have brought more than 20 goals and a steady supply of assists from the left flank.
Individual recognition has also come, including selection in the PFA Team of the Year, Arsenal’s Player of the Season award in 2022–23, inclusion in the Women’s Champions League Team of the Season and a Ballon d’Or nomination.
McCabe signed what was described as a long-term extension in September 2023, yet that agreement expires this summer.
Reports in 2026 indicate Arsenal are prepared to reshape their squad with younger players, meaning one of the club’s most consistent performers of the past decade now appears set to depart on a free transfer.
She is unlikely to be the only one.