Laura Coombs has built a reputation as one of the Women’s Super League’s most reliable and hard-working midfielders. With a career spanning over fifteen years at the top level, she brings experience, grit, and technical skill to both Manchester City and the England national team. Here’s a detailed look at her journey, achievements, and what makes her a standout figure in English football.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on January 29, 1991, in Gravesend, England, Laura Coombs was passionate about football from a young age. She started her youth career with Charlton Athletic before joining Arsenal’s academy, where she quickly rose through the ranks. By age 16, she had broken into Arsenal’s first team, setting the stage for a long and successful professional career.
Club Career: From Arsenal to Manchester City
Arsenal and Early Loans
Coombs made her senior debut with Arsenal in 2007, gaining valuable experience and contributing to the club’s domestic campaigns. She had loan spells at Nottingham Forest and Los Angeles Strikers, broadening her football education in both England and the United States.
Chelsea
In 2011, Coombs signed with Chelsea, where she played 52 league matches over six years. She was part of the squad that won the Women’s Super League and FA Cup double in 2015. During her time at Chelsea, she also had loan stints with Barnet, another spell with LA Strikers, and Liverpool.
Liverpool
Initially joining Liverpool on loan in 2016, Coombs made the move permanent in 2017. She became a regular starter, making 45 appearances and scoring four goals over two seasons.
Manchester City
In June 2019, Coombs signed for Manchester City. She quickly made an impact, helping the club win the FA Cup in 2020 and the League Cup in 2021. After a challenging first season, she became a regular starter, especially after the departure of several midfield stars. Known for her aggressive, box-to-box style, Coombs is valued for her work rate, leadership, and ability to score spectacular goals. She reached her 100th appearance for City in December 2023 and signed a contract extension through 2025, cementing her status as a key figure in the squad.
International Career: From Youth Success to World Cup Debut
Coombs represented England at every youth level, winning the UEFA Women’s Under-19 Championship in 2009. She made her senior debut in October 2015 and, after a long absence from the squad, earned a recall in 2023 thanks to her outstanding club form. She was the oldest member of England’s 2023 World Cup squad and made her tournament debut against Denmark, fulfilling a lifelong dream and bringing valuable experience to the national team.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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FA Women’s Super League and FA Cup double winner with Chelsea (2015)
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FA Cup winner (2020) and League Cup winner (2021) with Manchester City
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Over 100 appearances for Manchester City
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UEFA Women’s Under-19 Championship winner (2009, England U19)
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England senior debut in 2015; World Cup squad member in 2023
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Known for her aggressive, box-to-box midfield play and leadership qualities
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As an established WSL player and England international, Coombs earns a competitive salary at Manchester City, with additional income from bonuses and sponsorships. Her experience and professionalism make her a valuable ambassador for the women’s game.
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Estimated Salary: Among the higher earners at Manchester City Women, with contract extensions reflecting her importance
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Endorsements: Partnerships with sports brands and club sponsors
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Future Prospects: Set for continued influence in football, with business ambitions for life after her playing career
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Laura Coombs is known for her discipline, humility, and entrepreneurial spirit. She holds a business degree and is interested in pursuing business ventures after her football career. Coombs is admired by teammates for her work ethic and willingness to do the hard work that often goes unnoticed.
FAQs About Laura Coombs
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What position does Laura Coombs play?
She is a midfielder, known for her aggressive, box-to-box style and leadership. -
Which clubs has Laura Coombs played for?
She has played for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and currently Manchester City, with loan spells at Nottingham Forest, Barnet, and LA Strikers. -
When did Laura Coombs make her England debut?
She debuted for the England senior team in October 2015. -
What are Laura Coombs’s top achievements?
Winning the WSL and FA Cup with Chelsea, FA Cup and League Cup with Manchester City, and representing England at the World Cup. -
How many appearances has Laura Coombs made for Manchester City?
She reached her 100th appearance for the club in December 2023.
Conclusion
Laura Coombs’s journey from Arsenal’s academy to becoming a mainstay at Manchester City and returning to the England squad is a testament to her resilience, skill, and dedication. As she continues to anchor City’s midfield and inspire young players, Coombs remains a role model and a leader in English women’s football.
