Image Credits: Imago Images
Both Manchester City and Liverpool, two clubs who have dominated the Premier League landscape for the better part of a decade, are heading into a new era with new managers at the helm.
Pep Guardiola’s extraordinary chapter at the Etihad has come to a close, while Arne Slot has departed Anfield following a difficult 2025/26 campaign.
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Whether either club can sustain their position at the very pinnacle of the English game under fresh leadership remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that change is sweeping through both institutions – and not only in the dugout.
On the women’s side, Manchester City have confirmed that former Liverpool goalkeeper Katie Startup will depart the club when her contract expires this summer.
Startup, 27, joined City permanently in September 2024 from Brighton & Hove Albion, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal after an impressive emergency loan spell at the club during the tail end of the 2023/24 season.
Before her time at Brighton, Startup had spent a season-long loan spell at Liverpool Women during the 2021/22 campaign.
Speaking to the club’s media channels, she said:
“I entered City in the final stretches of a title chase, and it feels fitting that I leave now after finally finishing the job and seeing the WSL back at City.
“I want to extend a huge thank you to the fans for all your support, memes (yes, I see them), and for making me feel so welcome at this club from day one.
“To my team-mates and everyone at the Club, thank you for bringing light to my every day,” Startup said.
“I cherish you and the memories we’ve made more than any match result, medal or title. I am a better person, have a fuller and richer life, because of you.”
“The last two years have been the best six-week loan of my life. Thanks for making me a Cityzen, now and forever.”
The English goalkeeper began her senior career at Charlton Athletic back in 2017 before moving to Brighton in 2020. She also earned international recognition along the way, representing England at U15, U17, and U19 levels.