The latest new face to arrive at the City Football Academy this summer, Ellen Ellard has joined the City Family and will attend her first game as PA announcer this Wednesday for our Champions League Round Two second leg clash against Real Madrid.
The encounter also marks the welcome return of fans to the CFA – their first game back since March 2020 – and the first opportunity for our supporters to meet Head Coach Gareth Taylor and our five new signings.
Making her own debut, Ellen will be bringing you even closer to the action, helping to build the atmosphere before kick-off, sharing match updates throughout the game and having some fun.
Speaking ahead of the game, she says she cannot wait to see an iconic night under the lights with fans back singing in the stands.
“I am so happy to be part of the Man City Family,” she said.
“I’ve been following the women’s team for a while now and to be able to be there at every home game, meeting fans and enjoying the atmosphere – and hopefully, announcing loads of goals! – is great. I can’t wait to get started.
“The fans are back and I can’t wait to see the Academy Stadium packed out again – rain or shine!
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“It’s been nice to see everyone supporting each other and adapting to support the team over the past 18 months with everything we’ve been going through but it’s so good to have everyone back in person to the stadium. Even if it’s chucking it down, we’ll take it!
“I’m also looking forward to meeting the Moonies! After a year of limited hugs, don’t be surprised to see me sandwiched between the two of them, getting a photograph!
“The best thing about Manchester is the people – they’re so kind and it’s so easy to make friends. There’s such a buzz around the city and loads to see or do.
“I love seeing live gigs and bands and there’s no place better to do that. I’m hoping to bring some of that energy into matchday.”
City have started the season well with a win and a draw from our two away trips – a thumping 4-0 rout at Everton and a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid in our European first leg tie.
Bolstered by new recruits Vicky Losada, Khadija Shaw, Hayley Raso, Alanna Kennedy, Ruby Mace and Filippa Angeldahl over the summer, the squad depth of Gareth Taylor’s side has proven a major talking point and like the fans, Ellard cannot wait to see them in action.
“I’m really looking forward to getting to see the new players,” she added. “I feel we’ve made some brilliant additions to an already super-strong squad over the summer. It’s going to be a joy to watch them play.
“They’re all amazing. I’ve loved meeting the team in the run-up to the season. I think my favourite player is my namesake Ellen White – not just because of her name! She’s a legend.
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“I’m looking forward to hopefully announcing lots of goals from her this season!
“I know the team are keen to push on from last season. I’d fancy our chances of the WSL title and the Champions League, and retaining the FA Cup, as we look to finish the final rounds.
“There’s so much to look forward to.”
Don’t miss the chance to welcome Ellen and the squad in Wednesday’s home opener. Tickets for our game against Real Madrid are also now on sale, while the clash is also available to watch live on CITY+.
