Bristol City announce further first-team departures including shock exit of international attacker

Bristol City have announced that three further first-team stars will depart Ashton Gate this month after the trio held talks with recently-appointed boss Michael Skubala.

The Robins confirmed their official retained list following the conclusion of the 2025/26 Championship campaign last month, but revealed talks with Mark Sykes, Sam Morsy and Harry Cornick were ongoing.

However, the club have today revealed that all three players will bid farewell to the club upon the expiration of their deals on July 1.

A statement on Bristol City's official website read: "Bristol City can announce that Mark Sykes, Sam Morsy and Harry Cornick will depart the club this summer following the expiry of their contracts.

"Republic of Ireland international Sykes departs after four seasons at Ashton Gate where he made 153 appearances and scored 18 goals.

"Cornick signed for City in January 2023 and scored five goals in 68 appearances. The forward spent the tail end of last season on loan at Stevenage, before suffering an ankle injury and completing his rehab back at City.

"Morsy joined the Robins in January 2026 on a six-month deal and made 20 appearances, scoring once against Norwich City at Ashton Gate."

Sporting Director James Ellis said: “Everyone at Bristol City would like to thank Mark, Harry and Sam for their effort and commitment while they have been at the club.

"We will follow each of their careers closely and wish them and their families the very best of luck for the future.”

Three weeks ago, the club confirmed that all four of last season's loannees, Neto Borges, Delano Burgzorg, George Earthy and Radek Vítek, had all returned to their parent clubs along with a string of academy departures.

However, the futures of Sykes, Morsy and Cornick were put on hold as they looked to appoint Roy Hodgson's managerial successor.

It was always expected that Morsy and Cornick would depart following Skubala's arrival, although the news of Sykes imminent exit comes as something of a shock given the 28-year-old had cemented himself as a first-team regular in the West Country.

The seven-time capped Irish international, who signed from Oxford United four years ago, scored four goals in 41 appearances for the Robins last season with the club turning down permanent offers for him in January.