Lily Murphy is one of the most promising young attackers in English football, renowned for her electric pace, direct style, and versatility. Having risen through Manchester City’s academy, she is now making her mark in the Women’s Super League and with England’s youth teams.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on February 13, 2006, in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, Lily Rose Murphy began her football journey at Blackburn Rovers, where she scored 6 goals in 5 appearances for the under-14s in the Talent Pathway League. A lifelong Manchester City fan, she joined the club’s academy in 2022, netting 5 goals in 21 games for the development squad and quickly establishing herself as a standout talent.
Club Career: From Academy Prospect to First Team
Manchester City
Murphy’s rapid progress saw her feature in pre-season fixtures in Australia in September 2024, coming on as a substitute against Paris Saint-Germain. She made her senior competitive debut for Manchester City in September 2024, appearing as a substitute in a 5–0 UEFA Champions League qualifying win over Paris FC. On December 4, 2024, she signed her first professional contract with the club, having already made five senior appearances.
Murphy scored her debut goal for City in the Champions League against St. Pölten, helping her team top their group. She earned player of the match honors for her lively and creative display on her first senior start. In January 2025, she scored the winning goal and provided an assist in a League Cup quarter-final victory over Manchester United, describing the moment as a “dream come true.”
Loan Spells
To gain experience, Murphy spent time on loan at Stockport County (3 appearances, 2 goals), AFC Fylde (11 appearances, 4 goals), and Stoke City (11 appearances, 1 goal) between 2023 and 2024, impressing with her pace and goal-scoring instinct.
International Career: England U19 Talent
Murphy received her first England U19 call-up in February 2024, featuring in the La Nucia tournament in Spain. She has since made five appearances for the U19s, playing both as a winger and midfielder in European qualifiers and friendlies.
Athletic Career
A multi-talented athlete, Murphy has represented England at youth level in the 100 meters sprint. She won the Greater Manchester County Schools Championships in June 2024 and narrowly missed a medal at the national finals. She continues to compete for East Cheshire Harriers alongside her football career.
Style of Play
Murphy is known for her blistering speed, direct dribbling, and ability to play as both a winger and center-forward. Her background as a sprinter gives her a unique edge in one-on-one situations. While praised for her attacking threat, she is still developing her physical strength and end product, with coaches highlighting her humility and willingness to learn.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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First professional contract with Manchester City (December 2024)
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UEFA Champions League debut and first goal for City
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League Cup quarter-final winner and player of the match against Manchester United
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Loan spells at Stockport County, AFC Fylde, and Stoke City
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England U19 international and youth sprint champion
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As a newly professional player, Murphy’s salary is in line with emerging Women’s Super League talents, with significant potential for growth as she cements her place in the first team. Her dual-sport background and rising profile make her an attractive prospect for future endorsements.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Lily Murphy is admired for her humility, focus, and dedication. She balances her football and athletics careers, and is known for her down-to-earth attitude and commitment to improvement.
FAQs About Lily Murphy
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What position does Lily Murphy play?
She is a winger and can also play as a center-forward. -
Which clubs has Lily Murphy played for?
Blackburn Rovers (youth), Manchester City, Stockport County (loan), AFC Fylde (loan), Stoke City (loan). -
What are Lily Murphy’s top achievements?
Scoring her first senior goal for Manchester City, winning a League Cup derby, and representing England at U19 and youth sprint level. -
How fast is Lily Murphy?
She is a former youth international sprinter, known for her exceptional pace on the football field. -
How old is Lily Murphy?
She was born on February 13, 2006.
Conclusion
Lily Murphy’s journey from local football in Greater Manchester to scoring for Manchester City and representing England U19s highlights her exceptional speed, determination, and potential. As she continues to develop, Murphy is poised to become a key figure for club and country in the years ahead.
