Maria Christine McAneny is a Scottish professional footballer known for her versatility and technical skill in midfield. She plays for Celtic FC in the Scottish Women’s Premier League and has represented Scotland at multiple youth international levels.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Maria Christine McAneny
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Date of Birth: 25 June 2004
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Place of Birth: Wishaw, Scotland
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Raised in: East Kilbride
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Position: Midfielder
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Age: 20
Maria started playing football in East Kilbride, often alongside boys a year older, and attended St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High School. She joined Celtic’s academy at 14 and progressed through the club’s modern apprenticeship program.
Club Career
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Celtic FC (2021–present):
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Made her senior debut in April 2021.
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Loaned to Heart of Midlothian for the 2021–22 season, where she was nominated for the inaugural PFA Scotland Women’s Young Player of the Year award.
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Returned to Celtic and became a regular squad member, valued for her ability to play in multiple midfield and defensive roles.
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Signed her first professional contract with Celtic in May 2023, running until 2026.
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Started in the 2022–23 Scottish Women’s Cup final win over Rangers at Hampden Park.
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Contributed to Celtic’s 2023–24 SWPL title win and participated in the club’s historic Champions League group stage campaign, making seven appearances off the bench.
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Statistics (as of early 2025):
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Over 50 senior appearances for Celtic
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7+ goals scored
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Key contributor in league, cup, and European matches
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International Career
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Represented Scotland at U16, U19, and U23 levels.
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Scored regularly for the youth national teams and has featured in U23 friendlies since 2024.
Playing Profile
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Strengths: Versatility, technical ability, passing, and tactical awareness
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Style: Can play across midfield and in defensive roles, offering flexibility and reliability to her team
Recent Highlights & Achievements
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SWPL 1 Champion (2023/24) and runner-up (2022/23)
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Scottish Women’s Cup winner (2022/23)
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SWPL Player of the Month (February 2025)
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SWPL Goal of the Month (February 2025) for a left-footed strike against Glasgow City
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Started in major cup finals and played a role in Celtic’s first Champions League group stage campaign
Personal Life
Maria’s father, Paul McAneny, was also a footballer, playing in the lower divisions of the Scottish Football League.
FAQs About Maria McAneny
What position does Maria McAneny play?
Primarily midfielder, but also used in various defensive and wide roles.
Which club does she play for?
Celtic FC.
How old is Maria McAneny?
20 (born June 25, 2004).
What are her main achievements?
SWPL champion, Scottish Cup winner, Player of the Month and Goal of the Month awards, and Scotland youth international.
What is her playing style?
Versatile, technically skilled, and tactically adaptable—able to contribute in multiple positions.
Conclusion
Maria McAneny’s rapid rise from academy prospect to first-team contributor at Celtic, along with her youth international experience and recent individual accolades, marks her as one of Scotland’s most promising young midfielders. Her versatility and composure make her a valuable asset for both club and country.
