Manchester United snap up highly-rated Wales Under-17 captain
ALGÉS, PORTUGAL - 16 FEBRUARY 2023: Wales' Olivia Francis during the WU17 friendly international match between Wales and the Czech Republic at the Cidade do Futebol, February 16, 2023 in Algés, Portugal. (Pic by Filipe Amorim/FAW)
Manchester United have snapped up Pontypridd United star Olivia Francis.
The 17-year-old, who is captain of the Wales Under-17 team will link up with the Red Devils this summer. Francis joined Pontypridd from the FAW Academy last summer, having initially played for Mumbles Rangers earlier in her career.
She went on to become an important player under James Fishlock, and made 22 appearances last term, getting 12 goals. Her club form saw her represent Wales four times in the UEFA Under-17’s EURO Championship.
In her parting statement to the Dragons, she said: “Thank you so much for everything! Loved spending my season here with you all. Wishing everyone at the club all the best.”
At the end of season awards, Francis was named the Adran Premier Young Player of the Season, in addition to the Players Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year award, she won at the club.
Francis is not the only player departing the USW Sport Park following the conclusion of the 2022/23 Adran Premier season. Alison Witts has moved on to Briton Ferry Llansawel following four seasons at the club, and also following her are Chloe Christy, Erin Parry, and Maisie Jones.
Meanwhile, first-team player Emily Bayliss has taken up the role as assistant coach at the Under-16’s team and will assist Andrew Lewis.
