Chelsea have announced the signing of Ireland captain Katie McCabe from Arsenal, with the experienced left-back set to join the club on 1 July 2026 when her current contract expires. The 30-year-old has agreed a deal with Chelsea until 30 June 2029, with the option of a further year.
McCabe said she is excited to begin a new chapter in her career and is eager to perform for Chelsea’s supporters, play at Stamford Bridge as a home player, and compete for trophies on multiple fronts. She added that she believes the move is the right step at this stage of her career and that she wants to help drive the club’s success forward.
Born in Kilnamanagh, McCabe began her career in the Irish Women’s National League with Raheny United, where she won multiple league titles and domestic cups. Her performances earned a move to Arsenal in 2015, where she became one of the club’s most reliable and popular players. During her time in North London, she won the Women’s FA Cup, a Women’s Super League title in 2019, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League in 2025. She was also named Arsenal Player of the Season in 2021 and 2023.
McCabe leaves Arsenal after making 305 appearances and scoring 36 goals. She also spent time on loan at Glasgow City in 2017, gaining further experience before returning to Arsenal and establishing herself as a key figure in the squad.
At international level, McCabe has captained the Republic of Ireland since 2017, becoming the country’s youngest-ever skipper at the age of 21. She has earned 105 caps and scored 34 goals for her nation. One of the defining moments of her international career came at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, when she scored Ireland’s first goal at a World Cup, finding the net directly from a corner against Canada in the team’s opening match.
Her achievements later that year saw her become the first Irish woman nominated for the Ballon d’Or and the first Irish footballer to appear on the shortlist since Roy Keane in 2000. Known for her energy, leadership, versatility and powerful long-range shooting, McCabe primarily plays at left-back but can also operate higher up the pitch or in midfield.
Chelsea described the signing as an important addition to their squad and welcomed McCabe as they look to continue competing for major honours in the coming seasons.
