After a fantastic season, Manchester City fans will wish today could last forever, as it marks the retirement of one of the club’s most beloved figures, Laura Coombs.
Known affectionately as “Coombsy” by the City faithful, Laura Coombs became an integral part of the squad after joining Manchester City in 2019. Over seven years at the club, she made 156 appearances, placing her eighth on City’s all-time appearance list, whilst scoring 28 goals along the way.
Coombs’ football journey began at the age of eight. Reflecting on her early years, she said:
“I thought I was the only girl who liked football because I didn’t see anyone else playing it.”
She began her career in Arsenal’s youth academy before making her first-team debut for Arsenal W.F.C. at just 16 years old.
Her career would later take her to Chelsea F.C. Women, alongside loan spells with Barnet and Los Angeles Strikers, before eventually joining Liverpool F.C. Women permanently in 2017. Three years later, she swapped Merseyside red for Manchester blue — a move that would define the latter stages of her career.
Over the past seven years, Coombs has become a key figure for City, consistently delivering important performances in major matches, including clashes against local rivals Manchester United. She was the type of player supporters could always rely on, someone who gave absolutely everything every time she stepped onto the pitch.
Manchester City head coach Andrée Jeglertz summed up her importance perfectly, saying:
“Players like Laura give you trust — you know exactly what you will get, and it is always at a high level. Her influence goes far beyond her performances; she has helped shape strong team cultures wherever she has been.”
The Gravesend-born midfielder also earned seven caps for the Lionesses during her career. After making her England debut in 2015, Coombs returned to the international setup eight years later when she was called up by Sarina Wiegman for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad. She featured twice during the group stages, marking a remarkable return to the international stage.
Speaking on Coombs’ retirement, Wiegman said:
“Laura’s contribution to the game has been significant, and she can be very proud of everything she has achieved, both with England and through her success in the domestic game.”
There is no doubt that Laura Coombs has enjoyed a fantastic career, playing a vital role in helping Manchester City secure the WSL title after a decade-long wait.
In the final WSL game of the season two weeks ago, Laura Coombs once again showed just how much she loves the game, even getting herself on the scoresheet as City defeated West Ham 4–1. Speaking after the match, she said:
“It’s pretty magical, to be honest. Even just to get on the pitch, I’m so happy for my team, and to be part of this day with them is the perfect ending.”
She leaves behind a legacy that will last a lifetime, along with a number seven shirt filled with unforgettable memories. Laura Coombs will be greatly missed by Manchester City supporters as she begins a well-earned retirement.
Laura Coombs Quote – https://www.mancity.com/news/womens/laura-coombs-retirement-announcement-man-city-63913088
Sarina Wiegman Quote – https://www.mancity.com/news/womens/laura-coombs-sarina-wiegman-tribute-man-city-63913091
