Sam Kerr to leave Chelsea at end of season after six trophy-laden years

Sam Kerr enjoyed a successful six years at Chelsea (The FA via Getty Images)

Chelsea striker Sam Kerr is to leave the club after six successful years in west London.

The Australian won five Women’s Super League titles, three FA Cups and three League Cups during her time with the Blues, as well as two WSL Golden Boots. Kerr also had a knack of scoring at important moments for Chelsea, including in three FA Cup finals at Wembley and to win the WSL on the final day of the season.

With 115 goals in 177 appearances, Kerr is the second-highest goalscorer in Chelsea’s history, trailing Fran Kirby by one. She could equal that record in her final appearance against Manchester United on Saturday.

“When I reflect on my Chelsea career and doing it for the last time, I just feel happy,” Kerr, 32, said. “Happy that it happened, and I feel so grateful to have played for this club for six years and won as many trophies as we could.”

Kerr, who is also Chelsea’s fourth-highest appearance maker, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2024 after finishing second in the Ballon d’Or and was sidelined for 20 months.

The Australia captain was also charged with racially aggravated harassment against a police officer in January 2024 following an incident in London, being found not guilty 13 months later following a high-profile trial.

Kerr’s departure follows the retirement of Chelsea captain Millie Bright and the club said: “We thank Sam for her incredible contribution to our success on the pitch and sustained growth off it. We wish her all the best in the next chapter of her career.”