Aston Villa Women have strengthened their attack with the loan signing of 20-year-old winger Lily Murphy from Manchester City. Murphy, who made her competitive debut in 2024, will bring pace and directness to the team. She is expected to play primarily as a left-winger, although she is capable of playing anywhere across the forward line.

What the club said

Director of Football, Marisa Ewers, 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."

Style of play

Upon signing for Villa, Murphy discussed why she feels the club is a perfect fit for her. "I'm looking forward to the new challenge and I can't wait to get out there now," she said. "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."

An opportunity to develop

At just 20 years old, Murphy understands that playing first-team minutes will be crucial to her development. "It's [progression] super important. I'm really looking forward to getting out there, showing everyone what I can do and just being myself," she said. "I hope to get a lot of minutes. I'm definitely here to compete and fight for my place, so I'm really excited for that."

International career

Murphy is yet to receive her first call-up to the senior Lionesses squad; however, she has played a part for the England youth teams since February 2024, when she debuted for the under-19s. She mentioned that she had spoken to some of her teammates from the Young Lionesses prior to signing for Villa. "I've spoken to a few of the girls from England camp, so it'll be nice to see them again, meet some new friends and meet some new faces as well."

The Villa fans

The new loanee expressed that she has heard a lot about the atmosphere created by the Villa faithful. "I've heard it's a tight-knit group and that they follow the team everywhere, so I'm excited to meet them as well," she said. To the supporters, she said: "I can't wait to see you all out there."

Aston Villa Women currently sit 9th in the FA WSL, with 20 points from 22 games, and are 35 points behind leaders Manchester City W. They have scored 28 goals this season, conceding 48, resulting in a -20 goal difference.