Change is in the air at Cardiff City Women as the club announces the departure of six players this summer, headlined by key figures Mikayla Cook and Megan Bowen. The squad is set for a refresh after a season that included a dramatic Welsh Cup triumph.

Defender Megan Bowen leaves after a memorable two-year stint that saw her make 106 appearances. Her legacy is sealed by coolly converting the winning penalty in the shoot-out that clinched the Bute Energy Welsh Cup for Cardiff. She now heads off to pursue further education and a new role in sports analysis, trading the pitch for the data room.

Joining her on the exit list is versatile winger and wing-back Mikayla Cook, a homegrown talent who rose through the club’s youth ranks. Cook also held her nerve from the spot in that 5-4 penalty shoot-out victory over rivals Swansea City Women. In 85 senior appearances, she found the net 23 times, leaving a mark as a consistent attacking threat.

The departures also include Laura Curnock, Amy Long, and Helen Evans, whose contracts have expired, as well as Lisa Owen. It’s a significant clear-out, but the club is already looking ahead.

Thirteen players have been offered contracts for the 2026-27 season, signaling a commitment to building a competitive core. Those receiving offers are Ceryn Chamberlain, Ffion Price, Hannah Power, Nieve Rowbottom, Fiona Barry, Mackenzie Olden, Kerry Walklett, Shannon Evans, Maddison Perrott, Seren Thomas, Hollie Smith, Lily Billingham, and Madison Lloyd.

With the taste of that dramatic Welsh Cup final victory still fresh, Cardiff City Women are reshaping their squad for the challenges ahead. For fans, it’s a bittersweet farewell to some key players—and an exciting glimpse at the next chapter.