Manchester City has finalised the signing of Jill Roord, a Dutch international and seasoned midfielder, from VfL Wolfsburg, setting a new British transfer record. The club signed her for a fee in excess of £300,000, resulting in a watershed moment in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and potentially a game-changer for City’s competitive ambitions.

Roord Brings Rich Experience and High Ambitions to Manchester City

Roord’s arrival at Manchester City represents a significant milestone for the club, which finished fourth in the WSL in the 2022-23 season. With her successful stints at Twente, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Wolfsburg, Roord brings a proven track record of winning at the highest level of women’s football.

“I’m very happy and it’s a very proud feeling for me to sign for Manchester City,” Roord stated after the signing. I’ve always believed this was a terrific club with a lot of quality, and I’m thrilled to be starting here.”

She also praised the club’s style of play and the potential that she sees in the young players. Roord also voiced confidence in the club’s plans, saying, “If you play for City, you compete for everything you are involved in, and that is what we will be aiming to do.”

Club and Coach Welcome Roord’s Inclusion

Head Coach Gareth Taylor was equally positive about Roord’s signing, remarking, “We’re really pleased to have been able to secure Jill’s signature and bring her to the club.”

He went on to praise Roord’s achievements in both England and Europe, stating, “She is a player whose calibre speaks for itself with what she has achieved, and we believe she will be a fantastic addition to our squad here at City.”

A Proven Winner and A Source of Hope

Roord’s impressive career to date speaks volumes about her skills and determination. She has won titles in multiple countries, was named a European Champion with the Netherlands, and even claimed the Eredivisie Golden Boot following a spectacular 20-goal season in 2015/16.

Since then, she has steadily advanced in her profession, making substantial contributions to every club she has been a member of. Roord has been a part of several major successes, from her time at Twente through her time at Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and her outstanding stay at Wolfsburg.

A Future Full of Promise

Roord, who will wear the number 20 shirt for City, will join the club after the World Cup this summer. This is her return to the English football scene, and she is determined to add to Manchester City’s squad with her enormous experience, goal-scoring skills, and winning mindset.

As Head Coach Taylor noted, “With ten major honours and 86 senior international appearances so far, a signing of Roord’s calibre could be the key to transforming our ambitions into reality.”

Every move Jill Roord makes for Manchester City will be scrutinised by fans and opponents alike. Only time will tell if this record-breaking signing will help the club reach the heights it seeks in the competitive Women’s Super League scene. But one thing is certain: Roord’s entrance has created an undeniable buzz around the upcoming 2023/24 campaign.