‘It breaks my heart’ – legend Mead to leave ArsenalImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Mead was runner-up in the 2021-22 Ballon d’Or Feminin ByMandeep SangheraBBC Sport journalistPublished11 May 2026Beth Mead mentioned it “breaks her heart” to leave Arsenal after it was unveiled the forward will depart the club at the end of the season.The 31-year-old England international has scored 86 goals in 263 games for the Gunners since joining them from Sunderland in 2017.She has helped Arsenal win the Women’s Champions League, Women’s Super League, Fifa Champions Cup, and three League Cups in her time at the club.It is understood London City Lionesses and Manchester City are interested in signing Mead, who was named player of the tournament and winner of the Golden Boot as she helped England win Euro 2022.
While acknowledging the “unbelievable” on-field success she has experienced with Arsenal, Mead paid particular tribute to the support she received away from the football pitch, describing the club as the place “where I’ve grown up” and “felt a love and belonging” during struggles with homesickness, injury and bereavement.
“For me, it’s always been about more than just trophies, it’s about the people you share it with,” Mead mentioned in an emotional Instagram video. “The friendships I’ve made here go far beyond football and I know that they’ll last a lifetime.
“You’ve seen me at my very best and you’ve seen me at my lowest and you’ve never let me face anything alone.”
