Manchester United Women have announced the signing of former Bristol City goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper has signed a contract until the end of the 2022/23 season, with the option of a further year.
Manchester United Women Sign Goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley
Meet the newest member of the #MUWomen GK union 🧤😎
✍️ @SophieBag96
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) July 23, 2021
Goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley Joins Strong Department
Manchester United are already strong in the goalkeeper department. Mary Earps currently occupies the role of number one, though, Emily Ramsey and Fran Bentley, both 20-years-old, represent strong options for the future.
Now-retired Siobhan Chamberlain was the first-choice for the FA Women’s Championship-winning season before her pregnancy saw her take a break, which allowed Mary Earps to come in and take over.
Earps has been a solid option for United since, making some key saves in big games. It will be interesting to see Earps and Baggaley go head-to-head between the sticks, with Emily Ramsey reportedly set to go out on loan.
Baggaley’s Journey
Baggaley came through the academy at Birmingham City before a loan with Bristol City turned into a permanent move. Marc Skinner, who is reportedly in line to take the reins at Manchester United Women, was in charge at Birmingham when she went out on loan. Baggaley has been among the leading goalkeepers for saves in recent seasons with the Robins being on the back foot a lot, resulting in their eventual relegation.
She has been capped by England Women at U17, U19, U20, U21, and U23 levels. She will be targeting involvement with the Lionesses and in joining a club as big as Manchester United, Baggaley has only enhanced her chances.
Ready for the Challenge
New goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley told the club website: “It’s a great feeling to sign for Manchester United; a fresh new start for me and I’m looking forward to settling in and really putting the work in ahead of the new season.
“I know the goalkeeping department at the club is strong and everyone is here to compete which will really help me push on in my own development.” She continued: “I can’t wait to get started; I want to be part of success at this club and make the fans proud.”
Football director John Murtough added: “Sophie is another fantastic signing and will strengthen the goalkeeping department at the club which has always been fiercely competitive.
“She has lots of experience in this league and will be a great addition to this group of players. We’re looking forward to seeing her develop here at United.”
Baggaley is not the first arrival at Manchester United Women today, Hannah Blundell made the move as part of the deal that saw Lauren James exit for Chelsea.
Meanwhile, the FA Women’s Super League fixtures were released earlier today. Manchester United will kickstart their campaign at home to Reading on the weekend 3-5 September 2021.
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
