Academy graduate Gracie Prior has signed her first processional contract with Manchester City.
The 19-year-old defender had been in the youth setup at the club since 2012 since being born and raised just a stone’s throw away from the Joie Stadium.
She will wear the number 28 shirt after signing a four year deal.
Prior appeared in a 6-0 Continental Cup win against Blackburn Rovers in October 2022 – coming on for Demi Stokes after 81 minutes as one of four Academy graduates on that day.
She earned further senior minutes during a successful dual registration spell with Burnley during the 2023-24 season.
Speaking about her first ever professional contract, Prior said: “It feels like a dream come true to sign my first professional contract for one for one of the biggest clubs in the world.
“It’s amazing, and a really proud moment for me and my family. It’s something I’d dreamt of, but it still feels very surreal.
“It [also] shows there are opportunities and if you work hard, it’ll pay off.
“City believe in homegrown players, and it shows.”
Manchester City Women Managing Director, Charlotte O’Neill, said: “We’re all so proud of Gracie and how much she has developed as a player and a person on and off the pitch.
“We believe in homegrown talent, and we know there is so much more to come from Gracie.
“She loves City, is naturally talented and has worked very hard to get to where she is today.
“Her signing this contract is further validation of the excellent work our academy staff are doing, and we’re excited for what is to come.”
Head Coach Gareth Taylor continued: “Gracie is talented young defender and has a bright future ahead of her.
“We’re looking forward to seeing her continued growth and development on and off the pitch.”