On Monday, Reggae Girlz captain Khadija “Bunny” Shaw committed her long-term future to Manchester City when she signed a new four-year contract which will see her compete in England’s top flight until 2030.

It’s a remarkable turnaround for both Shaw and City after things were heading for a separation between the player who helped the team win the Women’s Super League (WSL) title and the organisation.

After contract talks broke down in March, many-time WSL champions Chelsea were seemingly on the verge of securing Shaw’s signature on a free transfer, and were reportedly willing to pay her one million pounds a year ($211 million), which would make her one of the world’s highest- paid players.

Spanish and European giants FC Barcelona were also interested, and fears of her departure were fuelled recently when Shaw told Sky Sports she was uncertain of returning.

However, the WSL and Football Writers Association Player of the Year says she’s elated to be staying in Manchester.

“I’m so happy to be at this incredible club for another four years,” Shaw said. “I’ve always said that Manchester City feels like home. I’ve developed so much as a player and grown so much as a person during my first five years here”.

“Helping the girls win the WSL title is one of the proudest moments of my career, and I’m so excited to see what we can do next season and beyond. To the City fans – thank you for always supporting us all. I’m so happy to be on this memorable journey with you all and can’t wait to see what we can achieve in the future,” she added.

Manchester City’s Director of Football Therese Sjogran said it was critical to keep their taliswoman, who has brought immense success to the club.

“The stats and awards speak for themselves, but there’s so much more to Bunny than what she does on the pitch. She has become a real leader in the team, and I’m sure she’ll be a driving force on our return to UEFA Champions League football next season and our push to retain the WSL title,” said Sjogran.

“It’s a huge statement from City that we’ve secured the services of one of the best centre-forwards in the world, but also from Bunny that she believes we’re the best place for her to succeed. I’d like to thank her for that continued faith in what we’re hoping to achieve.”

Shaw won her third-consecutive WSL Golden Boot after scoring 21 goals in 22 games.

The 29-year-old, who joined City from Bordeaux in 2021, has registered 117 goals in 137 appearances, being the only player in the club’s history to surpass 100 goals in all competitions.

She can add to her trophy haul this Sunday when City take on Brighton in the FA Cup final.