Grace Clinton shines on Manchester City debut in 5-1 win

Grace Clinton marked her Manchester City debut with a goal off the bench as City beat Tottenham 5-1 in the Women's Super League at Brisbane Road. The England midfielder joined City on deadline day from rivals Manchester United, with England teammate Jess Park moving in the opposite direction.

Clinton had not been named in City's squad for the opening two league games of the season against Chelsea and Brighton, but her late introduction provided an instant spark as City showed their depth.

Her goal was her first in the Women's Super League since May 4, 2025, when she scored for United against Manchester City. She also helped set up Laura Coombs' injury-time strike when her shot deflected into the path of the midfielder, sealing the five-goal win for City.

It feels amazing,” Clinton said after the match. “It takes the pressure off a little bit. Now I can get flowing into the season. The main thing for me was getting on to the pitch, making those connections with the girls and getting stuck in. I really enjoyed it out there and I am really happy with my debut.”

Chelsea goalkeeper Becky Spencer, who played with Clinton on loan at Spurs during the 2023-24 campaign, said Clinton looked happy to be involved and settled quickly after coming on.

“Grace is a great player with the ball, she’s working on finding the ball in different spaces and engaging the backline,” City manager Andree Jeglertz said. “She is also working hard to fit into the group and the way we play — that will take some time. She wanted to be on the ball and she’s playing with a lot of confidence, which is good to see.”

Clinton’s arrival adds depth to a City squad already loaded with talent, and the early impact on her first appearance suggests she could become an important option for Jeglertz as City push for honours this season.