Joining the Blues in 2022, the defender has amassed 105 appearances in all competitions for Andrée Jeglertz’s side ahead of this Sunday’s FA Cup final, which will represent her final match for the Club.
Throughout her time at the Joie Stadium, the Spain international predominantly played at left-back, but was also used at left centre-back in the City Head Coach’s current system.
And it was under Jeglertz where Ouahabi lifted her first major honour with the Blues, playing 15 Barclays Women’s Super League matches in City’s title-winning campaign.
In doing so, she became only the second Spaniard, and first Catalonian, to win the English top-flight.
A dependable player who always led by example, Ouahabi was also a key member of the City side who possessed the best defensive record in the WSL in 2023/24 as the Blues matched our highest-ever top-flight points tally at the time.
During that term where we narrowly missed out on the title on goal difference, she was an instrumental figure in our defence across 23 appearances and only Alex Greenwood, Laia Alexiandri and Kerstin Casparij made more across our backline during the campaign.
A classy, committed defender with the desire to tirelessly drive up the flank to cause issues in the final third, the Spain international was a hugely popular member of the squad and certainly a fan favourite.
But now Ouahabi will move on to pastures new when her current contract expires at the end of June.
Speaking about her departure, Leila said: “It hasn’t been an easy decision, but I felt it was time to close this chapter, think about myself and make the best decision for my future.
“It’s been four very good years in Manchester, but it’s inevitable to feel sad when you’re leaving a place that feels like your home.
“I will always keep an eye on City’s results and I will always be just another fan.”
Director of Football Therese Sjogran added: ““We’re sad to see Leila leave Manchester City but would like to wish her the very best in the future.
“She is a fantastic professional and person, and the fact she leaves as a WSL champion is just rewards for all she’s given to this Club over the past four seasons.
“Her personality around the training ground, always smiling and joking with team-mates and staff, has been just as important, and is something I know will be sorely missed.
“Leila leaves with the best wishes of everyone at Manchester City. There’ll always be a place for her here.”
Everyone at Manchester City would like to thank Leila for her efforts during her time at the Club and wish her the very best for the future on the expiry of her contract.
