Manchester City striker Khadija "Bunny" Shaw has been named the Football Writers' Association Women's Footballer of the Year for the second time in her career, cementing her status as one of the most lethal finishers in the game.
The Jamaican international, who first claimed the honor in the 2023–24 season, has been in scorching form this campaign. With 19 goals in 21 Women's Super League appearances, Shaw is poised to secure her third consecutive Golden Boot—and she's just one goal away from making history as the first WSL player to score 20 or more goals in three different seasons. That milestone would put her in a class of her own, a fitting tribute to her consistency and class in front of goal.
But while Shaw's individual brilliance continues to shine, her future at Manchester City remains uncertain. After joining the club in 2021, the 29-year-old has become a fan favorite and a talismanic figure for the newly crowned champions. However, contract talks have stalled, and reports suggest she could be on the move this summer.
Chelsea, the dominant force in English women's football before City's recent title triumph, are reportedly leading the chase. The Blues are said to be ready to offer Shaw a deal worth up to £1 million a year—sweetening the pot with at least one more year on her contract than City were willing to agree to. Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor hasn't directly addressed Shaw's potential arrival, but she did admit in a recent press conference that signing a number nine is high on the club's priority list.
City manager Andree Jeglertz, meanwhile, is holding out hope. "I still hope she's signing a new contract with Manchester City, definitely," Jeglertz said on Friday. "But that's more of a discussion for the player and for people at the club. Right now, the most important thing is to enjoy our player, and she's here to compete with us, and do everything she can."
Shaw and City will have a chance to make more memories together this Sunday when they face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals (15:30 BST). The winner will advance to the final at Wembley on 31 May, where they'll take on either Liverpool or Brighton.
With her lethal finishing, powerful presence, and growing global reputation, Shaw is proving that she belongs among the world's elite. Whether she stays in Manchester or moves on to new challenges, one thing is certain: Bunny Shaw's name will be written into the history books of the women's game.