Newcastle sign Man Utd’s Mannion as recruitment drive continues in WSL push

After the statement arrival of England legend Jordan Nobbs earlier this week, signing number four is in for Newcastle United Women, who continue their recruitment drive ahead of their 2024/26 promotion push.

And it’s another international as 29-year-old Aoife Mannion puts pen to paper after leaving Manchester United.

Mannion was capped at every level from Under-15 to Under-23 for England the land of her birth. But she also qualified for the Republic of Ireland and when they came knocking Mannion opened the door.

She made her International debut in 2023 and so far the powerful, intelligent organised Centre Back has made 16 appearances for the Republic and netted once. But it’s not just that international experience she’ll be bringing to United. She has a wealth of top-flight WSL knowhow as well.

Mannion comes to Newcastle following the expiration of her contract at Manchester United and was another player that many tipped to end up at Newcastle this summer.

So, another worst kept secret as she comes to Tyneside where she’ll link up with fellow Irish international Emily Murphy.

Mannion spent four years with the Reds, making 55 appearances in all competitions, having joined them from local rivals Manchester City in 2021. During her time with Manchester United, Mannion won the first major trophy of her career coming on as a substitute in a 4-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur in the 2024 Women’s FA Cup final.

In two years with Manchester City, the defender would make 11 appearances as injury disrupted her time there. She netted once for them in the UEFA Women’s Champions League against Swiss side Lugano.

Born in Solihull, Aoife spent six years at Birmingham City prior to her north-west switch, appearing 94 times for the Blues as they reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League in 2014, finished runners-up in the Women’s League Cup in 2016, and in the FA Cup in 2017. Her career started across the city with Aston Villa.

On joining the Magpies, Mannion said:

“It feels so good to be part of the club. I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in and trying to hit the ground running.

“It is clear to everybody the direction this club is going in, it’s really exciting to be a part of.”

Newcastle United Women Manager, Becky Langley said: 

“Aoife is another player who brings a wealth of WSL experience with her, and we are really pleased that she has joined Newcastle United.

“She is a defender who loves to be on the ball and will be a leader in the backline.”

“She also has exceptional ability defending in one-v-one situations. Her ambitions match perfectly with ours and we are excited to work with her.”

So, another exciting solid and experienced addition to The Lady Mags squad as they continue to build for looks like being a very exciting season indeed.