Man City youngster Gracie Prior has signed his first professional contract

Manchester City academy graduate Gracie Prior has signed her first professional contract with a WSL club.

The 19-year-old defender has penned a contract that will keep him at the Joie Stadium until 2028. He previously joined the club as a youngster in 2012, having grown up away from the east side. Manchester.

He has previous experience of City's first team, having won the Conti Cup 6-0 against Blackburn Rovers back in October 2022. Last season, he had two spells at National League side, Burnley, to get more senior minutes. ,

She follows in the footsteps of fellow academy graduates Khiara Keating and Jess Park in progressing into the first-team setting. Both Keating and Park were key figures under manager Gareth Taylor in the WSL last season.

Speaking about signing his first professional contract, Prior said: “It feels like a dream come true to sign my first professional contract at one of the biggest clubs in the world. It's amazing, and a proud moment for me and my family. It's something I've been dreaming about, but it still feels very surreal.

“That's right [also] it shows that there are opportunities and if you work hard, it will pay off. City believe in their home players, and it shows.”

Coach Taylor added: “Gracie is a talented young defender with a bright future ahead of her. We look forward to seeing her continue to grow and develop on and off the field.”

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