Beth Meade will leave Arsenal at the end of the season as her contract expires.
The forward, who joined the Gunners from Sunderland in 2017, leaves after nine seasons in north London. She made 265 appearances for the club, scoring 86 goals.
During her glittering career at Arsenal, she won the Women’s Super League title, three League Cups, the Champions League and one Champions Cup.
Mead played a key role in the Lionesses winning Euro 2022
“It’s not easy to leave this club,” Meade said. “I don’t think any words are really enough for what this club means to me.
“My heart is broken in a way I never expected, but I leave with so much love, pride and gratitude.
“Arsenal will always be a part of me.”
While at Arsenal, Mead made his England debut and played a key role for the Lionesses as they won Euro 2022. She was named the tournament’s best player and was part of the England squad that defended their Euro 2025 title.
Claire Wheatley, director of women’s football, said: “Beth has made a huge contribution to our football club over the last nine years and will go down in history as one of our best forwards and a club legend.”
“Beth is a very special person and will always be welcome at Arsenal. I’m sure the supporters will join me in wishing Beth all the best and success in her future endeavours.”
Arsenal have announced that defender Raia Codina and midfielder Viktoria Perova will also leave the club at the end of this season when their contracts expire.
great servant of arsenal
Meade played 265 games for the Gunners, scoring 86 goals.
Analysis from Sky Sports’ Laura Hunter:
Meade enjoyed magical moments at Arsenal. Nothing could be more special than Stina Blackstenius’ amazing assist for the winner in last year’s Champions League final. It was no surprise that a player who lived and breathed life at Arsenal for the better part of a decade would have such an impact in a game of that magnitude.
She scored 86 goals for Arsenal, but that exquisite pass that unleashed Barcelona will probably be remembered as her finest moment.
Of course, the 31-year-old has also been a monumental figure for England over the years, changing the course of history both on and off the pitch. Not only is she a two-time European champion, she is also an active ambassador for ovarian cancer causes in memory of her late mother.
She’s fun to talk to. A very likable and humble character who doesn’t take himself too seriously but is equally dedicated to his craft. She cares a lot about football. She also cares about people. After such a traumatic nine years, there is no doubt that many at London Colney will miss her presence.
Indeed, her departure, along with Codina and Perova, signals a change in direction as Arsenal look to rebuild a squad capable of challenging for the WSL under manager Rene Sleggers. They have not won a title since the 2018/19 season.
Efforts are clearly underway to address that reality.
