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Mass Exit Rocks Sunderland Women as Five Players Depart in Brutal Summer Shake-Up – Club Confirms More Changes Incoming
Sunderland Women have confirmed the departure of five senior players in a major summer overhaul that has caught many supporters by surprise. Megan Borthwick, Jenna Dear, Mary McAteer, Grace Ede, and Amy Goddard will all leave the club when their contracts officially expire at the end of June.
The club also bid farewell to seasoned defenders Megan Beer and Grace McCatty, both of whom have announced their retirement following long and distinguished careers in women’s football.
Midfield talent Grace Ede’s exit marks the end of a lifelong association with the Wearsiders, having risen through the ranks from the club’s Regional Talent Centre (RTC). The other four Borthwick, Dear, McAteer, and Goddard were part of the 2023 intake and had only recently begun their Sunderland journeys before the club opted not to renew their deals.
While the exits have raised eyebrows, there is some positive news for fans. Five key first-team players Eleanor Dale, Katie Kitching, Libbi McInnes, Katy Watson, and Ellen Jones have all agreed to extend their stay, forming the core of Melanie Reay’s squad for the 2025/26 season. A total of 14 players are now confirmed to be under contract heading into the new campaign.
In addition to the senior exits, five academy players will also part ways with the club as their development cycles come to an end.
Sunderland have teased further squad announcements to come, hinting at more twists in what is shaping up to be a transformative summer at the Stadium of Light.
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