Lieke Martens confirms Barcelona departure

Lieke Martens has confirmed she will depart Barcelona following the conclusion of her contract on 30 June.

The Netherlands winger - considered among the world's best - has spent five years at Barcelona since joining from Rosengard in 2017 and has been a pivotal part of the club's transformation into a powerhouse of world football.

Martens has been heavily linked with a move to PSG by reports in both Spain and France.

"After five beautiful years at this fantastic club in this beautiful city I have decided to part ways with the club and start a new adventure," Martens wrote on Instagram.

"I came to FC Barcelona in a time that the club started an ambitious project to become a leader in the world of women’s football. We worked hard and I believe that we achieved the goals set five years ago."

During her time in Catalonia, Martens won three league titles, three Copas de la Reina and the Champions League in 2021, in addition to being named the Best FIFA Women's Player in 2017.

"Winning the Champions League was an absolute highlight as well as winning the FIFA World's Best Player Award as a player of Barca," Martens continued. "However I consider my time at Barca as my most precious achievement of the last five years and it's been great to be part of this club's history.

"It’s time for another adventure and I want to thank the club, coaches, staff, fans and of course all my teammates that have supported me to become the player I am today."