Karen Bardsley signs one-year contract extension | OneFootball

Manchester City Football Club is delighted to announce that Karen Bardsley has signed a one-year contract extension at the Academy Stadium.

One of English football’s most recognisable figures and a seasoned professional in the Barclays FA Women’s Super League, the goalkeeper surpassed a century of appearances for City in all competitions in November 2020.

Formerly on the books of Ajax American Women, Pali Blues and Sky Blue FC, the shot-stopper also played for Linkopings FC and Lincoln prior to her switch to Manchester.

And during her seven seasons at the Club, she has played a pivotal part in the team’s successes which include three Women’s FA Cups, one FAWSL title and three Continental Tyres Cups.

The 36-year-old was also the penalty shoot-out hero in the 2019 final of the latter, saving two spot-kicks against Arsenal to secure victory for City in the showpiece fixture at Bramall Lane.

She spent the second half of the 2020-21 season out on loan with OL Reign in the NWSL, making seven appearances in all competitions.

A stalwart for England since making her senior debut for the Lionesses 16 years ago, Bardsley has figured in a number of major tournaments for the national side, being named in the All Star Squad at the 2015 Women’s World Cup.

She also represented Team GB’s first ever women’s football team back in 2012 and was initially named in the squad for this summer’s Olympic Games before unfortunately having to withdraw through injury.

WATCH: Bardsley: Playing for City is a challenge – I don’t want to be comfortable

Speaking after putting pen to paper for what will be her eighth season as a City player, Bardsley said: “It feels great to be back and to have signed a new deal.

"I really missed being here in Manchester –although I had a great time on loan, there’s no place like home.

“It’s so special to have been a part of something that’s grown so quickly and to have been here from the start –to see what it’s become here at City now, I feel very proud of that.

“The past seven years have flown by, and long may it continue. It’s been more than I could have ever hoped for and I’m so excited for the season ahead.”

Gareth Taylor, Manchester City Women Head Coach, added: "We're thrilled that Karen has signed a new contract here at City.

"As she has shown during her career to date, she is a very talented goalkeeper who brings a wealth of experience to our squad.

"Having a player of her calibre commit her immediate future to the Club was important for us and we look forward to continuing our work together throughout 2021/22."