The striker, who has enjoyed two successful spells at the club, including a first in 2014 before rejoining in 2020, has had a trophy-laden time in Glasgow, which included being part of the squad that won the Gers’ first-ever league title.
Having claimed her first trophy success back at the club, she was also part of the side that won the Sky Sports Cup for the first time in their history in December 2022, coming off the bench to score the crucial second goal at Tynecastle in a 2-0 win over Hibs.
The following season, the forward enjoyed a fantastic campaign in 2023/24, scoring 26 goals in 30 games in all competitions as she became the first-ever player to claim back-to-back SWPL Player of the Month awards, winning it in both September and October 2023.
She made a substitute appearance in the Sky Sports Cup final as the squad successively defended the trophy, before scoring the decisive second goal in the 2-0 Old Firm win in the Scottish Cup semi-final win at Hampden as the Gers went on to win the competition for the first time in their history in May 2024.
Her campaign saw her rewarded with a first-ever Scotland call-up in September 2023, then after appearing in several camps her special moment arrived with a first-ever cap in July 2024, coming on as a second-half substitute in an away win over Slovakia in European Championship qualifying.
Heading into last season, Howat built on her fine form after receiving her first cap for her country, as she went on to score another 26 goals in 31 starts as she helped her team to back-to-back domestic cup doubles in her final campaign at the club.
Speaking upon her decision to depart Rangers, Howat commented: “Making this decision to leave the club I support and love has been the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make.
“I have fulfilled my dream of being a professional footballer and to do it at the club I love and support has been a privilege.”
Women’s Head Coach, Leanne Crichton, said: “We are disappointed to be losing a player of Kirsty’s ability, during our short time together, her qualities have been clear to see and she had a huge impact both on and off the pitch in my time in charge so far.
“Her abilities will be difficult to replace, helping this club to huge success over the years, but we will continue to move on and grow as a group as we understand Kirsty would like to take on a new challenge.
“We wish her all the best and sure she will continue to flourish in her career down south.”
Women’s and Girls’ Managing Director Donald Gillies added: “Kirsty has been a wonderful asset to Rangers since rejoining the club.
“Her technical ability, teamwork and commitment has made her a vital part of the squad over a number of seasons and she played a huge part in helping deliver silverware.
“While we are naturally disappointed to see her go, we fully support her decision to want to take on a new challenge of playing down south for the first time in her career.
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude for her contributions both on and off the pitch and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career, she will always be welcomed back at the club.”
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