City star going pro

Mitchell becomes City’s third loss in just over six months to professional football abroad, having lost Jane Ross to Sweden earlier this month and Lisa Evans to Germany last summer.

All three players were strikers with the Scottish Champions, who have dominated the domestic game in recent years having won the last six premier league titles.

Similar to Evans and Ross, 20-year-old Mitchell has spent her entire senior career with City, making her first team debut at 15 years old.

Mitchell — who scored 53 goals in 58 games — said, “I want to thank everyone at the club for their support over the last five years.

“I genuinely would not be where I am with my football today if it wasn’t for this club. Eddie’s coaching and opportunities to play in the Champions League have allowed me to develop as a player.

I understand the investment that has been put into me and I truly wish there was some way that the club could receive some payment or compensation for me leaving as I know myself, Jane and Lisa have all now left for professional careers with the club not receiving a penny.

City head coach Eddie Wolecki Black commented: “Emma has all the attributes required to play in the German league, she is fit, quick, strong and has an eye for goal. I am sure a lot of defenders in the country will be glad to see the back of her.”