Manchester United Women are saying goodbye to one of their most loyal stars this summer, as Leah Galton prepares to leave the club after eight memorable years.
Galton, along with Millie Turner and Ella Toone, was one of just three players who had been with the Red Devils since their inaugural season in 2018. Now, the club's website has confirmed that the winger's contract will not be renewed when it expires at the end of the current campaign.
During her time at Old Trafford, Galton made 171 appearances and scored 44 goals across all competitions. She also etched her name into the history books as the club's all-time leading scorer in the Barclays Women's Super League, with 35 goals in the top flight.
Before joining United, Galton's career took her from Leeds United to Sky Blue FC in New York, and even included a brief stint with German giants Bayern Munich during the 2017–2018 season.
However, this season has been a challenging one for the 30-year-old. A persistent back injury has limited her to just nine appearances, and she has yet to find the back of the net. Her influence on the pitch has waned in recent months, but her legacy remains strong.
Galton played a key role in United's only major trophy win to date—the 2024 FA Cup victory over Tottenham Hotspur. She also helped the club secure promotion from the second tier in the 2018–19 season, a foundation upon which the team has built its success.
Reflecting on her journey, Galton said: "I never thought I would be here for this long and still doing the thing I love doing, so I'm always proud of how far I've come. It's been a journey, and I'm just happy to have done it here. I know the girls will go on to do great things, and I'm excited to see that."
Head coach Marc Skinner, who has worked with Galton for five years, added: "Leah has played an important part in the journey of this club. Being part of the club from the very beginning and contributing over so many years is something that's meant a lot to us."
As Galton prepares to move on, her departure marks the end of an era for Manchester United Women. But for fans who have watched her grow from a founding player to a club legend, her impact will be remembered for years to come.