WSL: Manchester City’s Lily Murphy joins Aston Villa on loan

Manchester City’s Lily Murphy is set to spend the 2026/27 season on loan at Aston Villa, as she swaps the blue side of Manchester for claret and blue.

 Murphy joined Manchester City’s Academy in 2022 before progressing into the first team. She made her senior competitive debut in a Champions League qualifying victory over Paris FC in September 2024 before enjoying a breakthrough campaign with City that season.

The forward scored her first senior goal on her first start for City in a 2-0 Champions League victory over St. Pölten. She was also named the Player of the Match as a result of her impressive performance.

The 20-year-old has also represented England at international level, throughout the youth pathway. Murphy most recently featured for the Young Lionesses at Under-20 level.

Lily Murphy ‘excited for a new challenge’ with Aston Villa

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Speaking after completing her move, Murphy said: “I’m really excited. I’m looking forward to the new challenge, and I can’t wait to get out there now.”

 Murphy was drawn to Villa’s style of play, something she feels fits her own style.

“I really like the style of play. It’s a very direct team and I think it really fits with how I like to play my game. So, I’m really excited.”

 Marisa Ewers, Director of Football at Aston Villa, said: “Lily is an exciting young player who will add pace, directness and further attacking options to our squad. She has already gained valuable experience at Manchester City, and we believe this loan will provide her with an excellent opportunity to continue her development in a competitive environment.

“We’re pleased to welcome Lily to Aston Villa and look forward to working with her throughout the season.”

 The loan move marks the next step for the young forward, as she looks to progress her game.

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