Katie Startup is an English professional footballer known for her composure, intelligence, and reliability as a goalkeeper. Now with Manchester City, she has built a reputation for her shot-stopping ability, leadership, and commitment to mental health advocacy, making her a respected figure both on and off the pitch.
Early Life and Background
Born on January 28, 1999, in Maidstone, England, Katie Startup began her football journey at Maidstone Grammar School for Girls and Meridian Girls FC. She progressed through the youth systems at Gillingham and Chelsea, developing her goalkeeping skills before launching her senior career.
Club Career
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Chelsea (2017):
Startup was part of the Chelsea setup but did not make a senior appearance before moving to seek first-team football. -
Charlton Athletic (2017–2020):
She joined Charlton Athletic, where she helped the club achieve promotion to the Women’s Championship in her first season. Startup played every match in the 2018–19 campaign, kept eight clean sheets, and was nominated for the Championship Player of the Month in November 2018. She became known for her consistency and leadership, even changing her shirt number to 40 in 2019 to raise mental health awareness. -
Brighton & Hove Albion (2020–2024):
Startup signed for Brighton in 2020 and made her Women’s Super League debut in March 2022, keeping a clean sheet in a 2-0 win over West Ham. She also had loan spells back at Charlton and with Liverpool during her time at Brighton. -
Manchester City (2024–present):
After a six-week emergency loan at Manchester City during the 2023/24 season, Startup joined the club permanently on a two-year deal in September 2024. She provides valuable experience and competition for the number one spot, wearing the number 40 shirt.
International Career
Startup has represented England at U17 and U19 levels, earning multiple caps and gaining experience alongside future Lionesses stars.
Playing Style and Strengths
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Position: Goalkeeper
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Key Attributes:
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Excellent shot-stopping and reflexes
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Calmness and composure under pressure
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Strong leadership and communication
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Consistent performances in high-stakes matches
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Advocacy for mental health and positive team culture
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Career Stats (as of May 2025)
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Date of Birth: January 28, 1999
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Age: 26
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Nationality: English
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Height: 1.71 m
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Position: Goalkeeper
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Current Club: Manchester City (No. 40)
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Previous Clubs: Chelsea, Charlton Athletic, Brighton & Hove Albion, Liverpool (loan)
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Charlton Athletic Appearances: 32
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Brighton & Hove Albion Appearances: 2
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Manchester City Appearances: Registered, awaiting regular debut
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England U17/U19 Caps: 8+
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WSL Debut: March 2022 (clean sheet vs West Ham)
Achievements and Honors
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Promotion to the Women’s Championship with Charlton Athletic
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Eight clean sheets in the 2018–19 Championship season
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WSL debut and clean sheet with Brighton
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Permanent signing by Manchester City after successful loan spell
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England youth international experience
Frequently Asked Questions About Katie Startup
How old is Katie Startup?
She is 26 years old, born on January 28, 1999.
What position does Katie Startup play?
She is a goalkeeper.
Which clubs has Katie Startup played for?
She has played for Chelsea, Charlton Athletic, Brighton & Hove Albion, Liverpool (loan), and Manchester City.
What are Katie Startup’s major achievements?
She helped Charlton achieve promotion, kept eight clean sheets in a Championship season, and made her WSL debut with a clean sheet.
What makes Katie Startup stand out?
Her composure, reliability, leadership, and commitment to mental health advocacy.
Conclusion
Katie Startup’s journey from Maidstone to Manchester City is a testament to her resilience, professionalism, and passion for the game. As she continues her career at the top level, she inspires both teammates and fans with her performances and advocacy off the pitch.
