16-Year-Old NI Goalkeeper Abbie Smith Fulfills Dream with Manchester City Move

Rising Star Joins Manchester City

At just 16 years old, Abbie Smith from Lisburn, Northern Ireland, has achieved a milestone many young footballers only dream of—a scholarship with Manchester City’s Women’s Super League team. This two-year deal is a testament to her talent and dedication to the sport.

A Dream Come True

Smith described the opportunity as a "once in a lifetime" experience. She first caught Manchester City’s attention during a trial in March, followed by another in April where she trained with the first team. Reflecting on her journey, Smith shared, "It’s a whole different environment, it's amazing. It's great to see how the women's game is developing."

From Streets to Professional Fields

Smith’s football journey began at a young age, playing with Hillsborough Boys before transitioning to women’s football. Her father, a former goalkeeper, inspired her to take up the position in nets. "It’s always been in the family to be a goalkeeper," she recalled.

Balancing Football and Education

As she prepares to join Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad, Smith is also focused on her A-Levels. Her school, Victoria College, has been supportive, ensuring she can continue her education while pursuing her football dreams.

Support from Crusaders

Jonathan Tuffey, Crusaders’ manager, praised Smith’s dedication. "She’s very dedicated to her craft. The sky is the limit for her," he said, highlighting her phenomenal performance over the past few years.

Future Prospects

Smith is determined to make a career out of football. "Professional football has always been my dream and I want to go as far as I can," she expressed. With Manchester City’s resources and her relentless work ethic, Smith’s future in football looks incredibly promising.