Celtic FC Women lose top goalscorer Sarah Ewens to Birmingham City

By Euan Davidson

July 27, 2021

Celtic FC Women forward Sarah Ewens has agreed a deal with English side Birmingham City.

Ewens, who scored a ridiculous 64 in 96 games for Celtic [CFCWomen], has joined the side on a two-year deal. At 29, Celtic would’ve hoped the forward would’ve continued her fine form, ahead of Champions League duty.

However, after establishing a goalscoring record of a goal every 1.53 matches at Celtic, she’s taking her talents to the WSL. Interestingly, she’ll be managed by former Glasgow City boss, Scott Booth [Guardian].

Upon signing, Ewens said [BCFC]:

“I’m absolutely delighted. It’s really good to be here and I can’t wait to get started. It is massive for me, coming down, and playing in the top league.

“I love scoring goals and, hopefully, I can bring that to my game down here and also some assists as well. I am a very attacking player and I hope to bring those abilities to Birmingham.”

It’s a significant blow for manager Fran Alonso. Ewens had provided goals and continuity for Celtic, and it’s not the news the club would’ve wanted ahead of facing Levante. In Celtic’s maiden Women’s Champions League, the Ghirls face Levante first, in a convoluted qualification route.

Ewens shared move of the news on Twitter, saying she was excited to get going in the WSL.

Celtic FC Women losing Sarah Ewens is a considerable blow, but recruitment continues in earnest

It’s likely that Alonso and co. will have seen this coming. Celtic have recruited aggressively in the transfer window thus far. Exciting international talents, including forward María Catharina Ólafsdóttir Gros and Chinese midfielder Shen Mengyu.

Still, though; losing Ewens, signed from Hibs in 2016, is a blow. With her goalscoring feats, there was always likely to be significant interest from elsewhere.

Incredibly, back in the 19-20 season, Ewens scored against every SWPL opponent [CFCWomen].

Undoubtedly, Celtic will miss the free-scoring Ewens. Whether Ólafsdóttir Gros is the ready-made replacement, we’ll see this season.

In other news: Celtic Principal Shareholder Dermot Desmond involving himself with transfers