Following her retirement this summer, goalkeeper Karen Bardsley has announced her return to Manchester City.
The 38-year-old will take on the role of Project Officer at the club where she spent eight seasons during her playing career.
The former City No.1 will be involved in various departments within the club. She will spearhead new projects to support the women’s team both on and off the pitch.
Bardsley holds a masters degree in Sports Directorship, having achieved the degree during the final stages of her playing career.
Bardsley first joined Man City in 2014 and won four League Cups, three FA Cups, and the 2016 Women’s Super League title.
She also earned 82 caps for England and played a part in their bronze medal finish at the 2015 World Cup.
Embed from Getty ImagesA new chapter at Man City
Speaking on her new role, Bardsley said: “I can’t wait to get started. It is something that has been a long time in the planning. What is exciting is everything that sits alongside this role in terms of my personal career development.
“I am in a place with amazing resources, incredible knowledge and talented people who are so open and willing to help. I feel like it’s so important to consider career pathways for retired professionals and getting people to understand that there is a life after retirement.
“To have this opportunity in an environment that I’m so passionate about is amazing.
“Manchester City has done so much for me, and I can’t wait to give something back. Not only to the Club, but to women’s football as a whole.”
Embed from Getty ImagesSpeaking on Bardsley’s new role within the club, Manchester City Women Managing Director, Gavin Makel said: “Karen has been an integral part of the Club for almost a decade, and has proven herself to be an invaluable asset not only in a playing capacity, but with her passion and desire to grow the women’s game in all aspects.
“This progression plan has been something that we have had in mind for her for a long time. We’re thrilled that she will be staying here at City, allowing us to work together in this next phase of her life.
“Careers don’t just end when players hang up their boots, and this opportunity is a perfect one for Karen and Manchester City. She is a hugely popular character around the Club as a whole. I know her return will be very well received.”
