Arsenal manager Renee Slegers has paid a heartfelt tribute to departing full-back Katie McCabe, calling her "a legend of the club" and admitting that finding a direct replacement is "not possible."
The Republic of Ireland captain, 30, will leave the Gunners when her contract expires at the end of the season, bringing an incredible 11-year spell at the club to a close. During her time in north London, McCabe has made 305 appearances and played a pivotal role in some of the club's greatest successes.
Her trophy cabinet tells the story of a true champion: a Women's Super League title in 2019, a Champions League crown last season, plus an FA Cup, three League Cups, and a Champions Cup medal. But for Slegers, McCabe's value goes far beyond silverware.
"It's been an honour, and I think especially towards the end, we've grown closer to each other," Slegers reflected. "She possesses such a high football intelligence, which will be missed. She sees the pictures very clearly, she knows what decisions to make in the moment. She can transfer ideas onto the pitch, she trusts her instincts, she reads the game."
The manager also highlighted the grit and passion that made McCabe a fan favourite. "Her grittiness, her fight, playing with her heart – that was very important for us as a team. She's really added that edge to who we are. My respect for Katie is huge. If you are loyal to a club for 11 years and give your absolute everything, it's very rare nowadays. She's been a leader, and the trophies she's won – she's a legend of the club."
As Arsenal prepare to travel to Liverpool on Saturday for their first visit to Anfield in 13 years, the match carries added significance. Not only are the Gunners aiming to secure second place in the WSL, but the game will also mark the final appearances for England winger Beth Mead, Spain defender Laia Codina, and Netherlands midfielder Victoria Pelova, who are all departing this summer.
"If you take away Katie McCabe and someone else has to go in and bring the exact same thing, that's not possible," Slegers concluded. It's a sentiment that echoes through the stands of the Emirates – some legends simply cannot be replaced.