Official: “It was a dream”: 20yo United star delighted after signing three-year deal ahead of new WSL season

Manchester United have announced that Safia Middleton-Patel has put pen to paper on a new contract with the club.

Middleton-Patel signs new deal

Middleton-Patel has made steady progress since joining the club at the age of 15.

She made her senior debut last December and has had loan spells at Blackburn Rovers, Leicester City, Coventry United and Watford.

United have confirmed that the shot-stopper’s new terms run until 2028.

Reacting to the development, Middleton-Patel revealed her excitement at what the future holds.

Middleton-Patel’s reaction to new contract

The Wales international told club media, “I am so happy to be continuing my journey with Manchester United and excited about what’s to come in the next three years.”

“It was a dream to make my Manchester United debut last year and my ambition is to gradually compete for more minutes while also learning from and supporting the other excellent goalkeepers we have at the club.”

Matt Johnson, United’s director of women’s football stated, “We are proud of the progress Safia has made since joining our Academy five years ago and excited by her potential to develop further.”

“Any club challenging for honours needs more than one top goalkeeper; in Safia, Kayla and Phallon, we are fortunate to have one of the strongest groups in women’s football.”

Middleton-Patel was an unused substitute as United came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against Liverpool in their final pre-season clash.

First-choice goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce got the nod to start between the sticks. United’s goals were grabbed by Simi Awujo and Ella Toone.

United are back in action on Wednesday 27, when they face PSV Vrouwen in Sweden in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social