Kerolin has completed a transfer to Barcelona from Manchester City in a deal worth an initial €1.2 million (£1 million), setting a new Women's Super League record for a sale. The move, announced by Barcelona on Tuesday, was confirmed by Manchester City only on Thursday evening, more than 48 hours after the initial announcement, and comes after the Brazil forward failed to report for pre-season training in July.
Kerolin's Absence Stuns City
Manchester City staff and players were reportedly disappointed by Kerolin's actions, which were perceived as an attempt to force a move to Barcelona. The 26-year-old did not join the squad for pre-season training, which began in late July, despite having been on good terms with her teammates. Sources indicate that the team was taken aback by her absence from fitness testing, and she did not say goodbye in person before the transfer was finalized.
City's official statement acknowledged the transfer but did not address the circumstances surrounding her departure. The club said: "She grabbed 14 goals and six assists during that time, helping City to a WSL and FA Cup double in her solitary full season in England. And upon her transfer to Barça, City have received a WSL-club record transfer fee of €1.2m." The statement added: "Everyone at Manchester City would like to thank Kerolin for all her efforts at the club and wish her the very best in her future career."
Record Transfer Fee and Add-Ons
The initial fee of €1.2 million is the largest ever received by a WSL club for a player sale. With add-ons, the total could rise to approximately £1.25 million, though this has not been officially confirmed. This makes the transfer one of the largest in women's football history, underscoring the growing financial power of top European clubs.
Kerolin was a key player in City's historic season, helping them secure their first WSL title in a decade and win the Women's FA Cup. Her contributions on the pitch were significant, but her off-field actions have left a sour taste for many at the club.
Rare Standoff in Women's Football
While high-profile transfer standoffs are common in men's football, such incidents are comparatively rare in the women's game. This case highlights the evolving dynamics as women's football becomes more competitive and financially lucrative. For Kerolin, the move represents a dream opportunity to join the European champions, who beat Olympique Lyonnais in last season's Women's Champions League final.
Manchester City and Barcelona are set to face each other in a friendly at the Joie Stadium on 15 August, as both clubs continue their pre-season preparations. The match will be an early chance for fans to see Kerolin in Barcelona colors, though her former teammates may have mixed feelings about the reunion.
Impact on City and Women's Football
The transfer underscores the growing disparity between the financial resources of top European clubs and those in the WSL. While City received a record fee, the loss of a player of Kerolin's caliber is a significant blow as they look to defend their title. The situation also raises questions about player conduct and the mechanisms for resolving disputes in women's football.
Kerolin's representatives have been contacted for a response but have not yet commented. The Brazil international's move to Barcelona is a statement of intent from the Catalan club, who continue to dominate European football and attract top talent from around the world.
