I’m not leaving – Sunderland fans favorite winger dismisses exit rumours to blockbuster Deal – More Goals this time.
Sunderland have secured the future of experienced winger Izzy Atkinson, with the Republic of Ireland international committing her future to the club by signing a new contract ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
The Lady Black Cats confirmed the agreement through an announcement on their official website, providing a significant boost as preparations continue for the new season. Keeping Atkinson at the club is viewed as another important step in Sunderland’s efforts to build on last season and strengthen their ambitions in the Barclays Women’s Super League 2.
Atkinson, 25, arrived on Wearside during the summer of 2025 following her departure from Crystal Palace. Although her first campaign with Sunderland was disrupted, she still made a valuable contribution whenever called upon. The winger featured in nine Barclays WSL2 matches, scoring two goals while also registering one assist. Her performances helped Sunderland secure an eighth-place finish in the league standings, and the club believes there is much more to come from the Irish international once she returns to full fitness.
Having accumulated several years of experience across England’s top two divisions, Atkinson brings pace, creativity, and attacking intelligence to Sunderland’s frontline. Her familiarity with the demands of the women’s professional game is expected to play a key role as the team looks to take another step forward under its current project. The club sees her blend of experience and quality as an asset both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
Speaking after putting pen to paper on her new deal, Atkinson expressed her delight at extending her stay on Wearside while also revealing her determination to bounce back after a frustrating finish to last season.
> “I’m excited to continue representing this club. After a tough end to last season personally, I’m hungry to get back out there, give everything for this club, and help the team push on.”
Her comments reflect a player eager to make a greater impact in the upcoming campaign and help Sunderland compete higher up the table.
Atkinson’s renewal is one of several pieces of positive business completed by the club ahead of the new season. Sunderland have managed to retain the core of last year’s squad while also strengthening through the transfer market with additional experience and quality. The club’s recruitment strategy demonstrates a desire to improve on last season’s eighth-place finish and establish themselves as stronger contenders in the division.
With Atkinson now officially committed for another season, Sunderland supporters will be hopeful that the talented winger can enjoy an injury-free campaign and produce the performances that made her one of the club’s key attacking options. Her renewed commitment provides further optimism that the Lady Black Cats are building a squad capable of making significant progress during the 2026/27 season.
