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Chelsea Women's all-time leading goalscorer Fran Kirby will leave the club at the end of the season.

The 30-year-old has spent nine years at Chelsea, scoring 115 goals in 205 appearances and establishing herself as one of the greatest players of her generation.

Kirby will go down as one of Chelsea's greatest ever players
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Kirby will go down as one of Chelsea's greatest ever players

Along with departing manager Emma Hayes, Kirby will go down as one of the most influential figures in a glorious era for the Blues.

She was involved in 15 trophy wins - including six Women’s Super League titles, five FA Cups and two League Cups - while collecting numerous personal honours along the way.

Kirby, who has struggled with illness and injuries in recent years, broke down in tears while announcing her exit in an emotional message to supporters.

The England international said: "The club has grown since I first joined in terms of fans and engagement.

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"For me to have been there from the beginning, playing at Staines in front of an amazing crowd there, then going to Stamford Bridge and selling out the Bridge.

"It's been an incredible journey with all of you."

Kirby added: "Thank you for embracing me from day one and helping me overcome some really difficult times and sharing some amazing times with me.

"I will never forget how it felt to play in front of all of you. And I hope I have left the club and the shirt in a place where you can all be proud of me."

Kirby came close to retirement after being diagnosed with pericarditis just months after featuring in the 2019 World Cup.

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The forward battled back to full fitness but was then struck down with extreme fatigue that sidelined her for four months in 2020.

She recovered to play a starring role in England's successful Euro 2020 campaign before injury struck during the 2022/23 campaign.

In her final season, Kirby has scored five goals in 30 appearances, although Chelsea look likely to end the season empty-handed unless they pull off a miracle and catch Manchester City at the top of the WSL.

With Hayes also leaving after 12 years in charge, this summer represents the end of an era in west London.

General manager Paul Green said: "Fran has been a hugely important player for us over the last nine years. She has played an integral role in the club’s success, winning 15 trophies and earning numerous individual accolades.

"She is the club’s leading goalscorer in the modern era and leaves Chelsea with legendary status. We sincerely thank Fran for her contributions and wish her well for the future."

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