LONDON — Chelsea are set to sign Republic of Ireland captain Katie McCabe following her exit from Arsenal after her contract expired. McCabe left the Gunners despite being offered a late contract renewal in April, opting instead to pursue new opportunities.
McCabe made 305 appearances for Arsenal over an 11-year spell, helping the club win the Women's Super League title in 2019 and the Champions League in 2025. Her trophy haul with Arsenal also includes an FA Cup, three League Cups, and one Champions Cup medal. She was absent from Arsenal's parade in February celebrating their Champions Cup victory.
A versatile full-back who can also play as a winger or a centre-back, McCabe played a key role in Arsenal's recent successes, including knocking Chelsea out of the Champions League quarter-finals in April. During the second leg of that tie, Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor was sent off after reacting to an incident in which McCabe pulled the hair of Chelsea forward Alyssa Thompson.
Chelsea held off competition from WSL champions Manchester City to secure McCabe's signature. Both clubs had previously made their interest known. Chelsea approached McCabe in 2015, but she chose to join Arsenal at the time. The Blues reportedly attempted to sign her again in 2023, but Arsenal rejected their bid.
Chelsea missed out on the WSL title last season and have not won the Champions League. McCabe has won major domestic and European trophies with Arsenal and adds experience to Chelsea's squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.