Arsenal have officially confirmed that forward Beth Mead will depart the club at the end of the season, with the club hailing her as a true "legend."
The 31-year-old England international, who joined the Gunners from Sunderland in 2017, has been a cornerstone of the team's success. Over 263 appearances, she has netted 86 goals and helped Arsenal secure the Women's Champions League, the Women's Super League, the FIFA Champions Cup, and three League Cups.
"Beth has made a huge contribution to our football club over nine years," said Clare Wheatley, Arsenal's director of women's football. "She will go down in history as one of our best forwards and a legend of the club. Beth is such a special person and will always be welcome at Arsenal. I know our supporters will join me in wishing her happiness and success in her future endeavors."
Mead's departure marks the end of an era. Her crowning individual achievement came in 2022 when she was named Player of the Tournament and won the Golden Boot, leading England to glory at Euro 2022. That same year, she was crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year.
Her career has also been defined by resilience. After rupturing her ACL in November 2022, she embarked on an 11-month grueling recovery, which forced her to miss the 2023 World Cup. She returned stronger than ever, playing a role in England's successful defense of their European title at Euro 2025.
One of her most memorable moments in an Arsenal shirt came in last season's Champions League final against Barcelona. Coming off the bench, she set up the winning goal for Stina Blackstenius, ending the club's 18-year wait for the title. This season, Mead has made 27 appearances across the WSL and Champions League, scoring five goals.
According to reports, London City Lionesses and Manchester City are among the clubs interested in signing the prolific forward.
In a separate announcement, Arsenal also confirmed that midfielder Victoria Pelova will leave at the end of the season. The Dutch international, who joined from Ajax in January 2023, made 87 appearances for the Gunners.