Manchester United sign Safia Middleton-Patel for senior women’s team

English football club Manchester United have signed Safia Middleton-Patel for their senior women’s team, with the 18-year-old having signed her first professional contract with the club. The young goalkeeper, who has been with United since 2020, was also a member of the U-21 WSL Academy League and Cup-winning team last season. 

Middleton-Patel is the tenth player to sign for the women’s first team from the Academy since its reformation in 2018.

Speaking about her new contract, Safia Middleton-Patel said:

“I’m over the moon to sign professionally with Manchester United. It’s a surreal moment for me and my family. I have to say a massive thank you to all the staff – everyone has been amazing with me throughout my journey to get here.“

Marc Skinner, the Manchester United senior women’s team Head Coach, said:

“Safia has made excellent steps for both club and country on her journey to this first professional contract – having been involved with both our United first team and the Welsh senior national side. We are delighted to see her sign professionally with us and look forward to seeing her progress over the coming years.“

Middleton-Patel has also represented Wales at the U-17 and U-19 levels at the international stage and is currently part of the Wales senior squad as well.