Thibaud’s 72-game Leicester spell ends with Marseille switch | OneFootball

Julie Thibaud has completed a permanent transfer from Leicester City Women to French Première Ligue side Olympique de Marseille for an undisclosed fee, subject to clearances. That matters because it closes out a three-season stay in the Women’s Super League for a defender who made 72 appearances across all competitions for the Foxes.

The 28-year-old French international’s move comes after Leicester were relegated from the WSL at the end of last season, and she is one of several players departing King Power Stadium this summer in search of continued top-flight football. According to Leicester City’s official statement, the club thanked Thibaud for her contribution during her time at the club.

Three Seasons and 72 Appearances Define Thibaud’s Leicester Spell

Thibaud’s switch to Leicester brought her into the WSL fold, and over three seasons she became a fixture in the squad, racking up 72 appearances in all competitions. She helped the club to back-to-back record points totals in the WSL in 2023-24 and 2024-25, only for Leicester to be relegated at the end of last season.

Leicester’s announcement frames the exit simply: Thibaud leaves with the club’s thanks and appreciation for her contribution while at King Power Stadium. No further detail on her role within the squad or replacement plans was included in the official statement, so speculation on that front is best left for another day.

What the Marseille Move Means for the Transfer Picture

Olympique de Marseille’s capture of a player with three seasons of top-flight English experience is a straightforward addition to their defensive options ahead of the new Première Ligue season. Marseille finished ninth in the Arkema Première Ligue last season, and the deal remains subject to clearances even though it has been announced as permanent.

This kind of cross-Channel switch is becoming a familiar shape in the women’s game, with players moving between the WSL and French football in both directions. Readers who followed Caroline Weir’s move to OL Lyonnes will recognise the pattern of English-based talent finding fresh opportunities in France, even if the profile and circumstances here are very different.

What Happens Next for Leicester’s Squad

Leicester City Women now have a defensive vacancy to address as they prepare for life in the WSL2, with several other squad departures already confirmed following relegation. The team’s most recent pre-season outing saw them draw with Manchester United, and how they respond in the market over the coming weeks will be worth watching as the 2026-27 campaign approaches.

For context on how clubs are navigating this window, She Kicks’ guide to the 2026/27 WSL transfer windows lays out the key dates shaping moves like this one. Leicester’s business joins a run of other squad changes across the league this summer, including the departure covered in Brighton’s recent goalkeeper exit.