Cardiff City star makes transfer switch to Wrexham
WREXHAM, WALES - 29 MARCH 2026: Mikayla Cook of Cardiff City Women celebrates her goal to make it 0-1 during the Genero Adran Premier game between Wrexham and Cardiff City at the Park Hall Stadium in Oswestry (Pic by Craig Thomas/FAW)
Wrexham have completed the signing of one of the Adran Premier’s most exciting attacking talents, with former Cardiff City winger Mikayla Cook becoming the first addition to Jenny Sugarman’s squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
The 21-year-old arrives following the conclusion of a hugely successful spell with Cardiff City Women, where she established herself as one of the league’s standout performers while collecting an impressive haul of silverware.
Cook was among six first-team players to depart Cardiff City last month, but her exit was arguably the most significant. Having played a key role in the Bluebirds’ domestic success over recent years, the winger leaves the capital club with a reputation as one of the brightest young talents in Welsh women’s football.
Team of the Season Recognition
Cook enjoyed an outstanding individual campaign during the 2025/26 season, earning a place in the Genero Adran Premier Team of the Season.
Her attacking contributions were among the best in the division, with the winger scoring nine goals and registering 10 assists across the campaign. Those numbers underlined her importance to Cardiff City’s attack, while also showcasing her ability to both create and finish chances.
Blessed with pace, direct running and quality delivery from wide areas, Cook consistently caused problems for opposition defences throughout the season. Her performances not only helped Cardiff remain competitive at the top end of the table but also enhanced her growing reputation across Welsh football.
A Trophy-Laden Spell at Cardiff City
Cook leaves Cardiff City after enjoying one of the most successful periods in the club’s recent history.
During her time with the Bluebirds, she helped the club win three Genero Adran Premier titles, establishing Cardiff as one of the dominant forces in the Welsh domestic game.
In addition to league success, she was part of the squad that lifted the Adran Trophy and four Bute Energy Welsh Cups, contributing to an era that delivered consistent silverware and memorable moments for the club’s supporters.
Despite her young age, Cook arrives at Wrexham with significant experience of competing for major honours and performing under pressure in high-profile matches.
Why Wrexham?
Speaking after completing her move, Cook revealed that conversations with head coach Jenny Sugarman played a decisive role in her decision to join the Red Dragons.
“As soon as Jenny reached out to me, I knew that this was the place that I wanted to come to,” Cook told the club’s official website.
“After a conversation with her, it was a no brainer for me.”
“I’ve always heard the fans when I’ve been playing for Cardiff, and the way they back this team and show their support for the Club is unbelievable. You can feel their passion on the pitch, even when you’re the opposition.
“I’m looking forward to having that backing and playing in front of them.”
The comments highlight the growing appeal of Wrexham Women’s project, with the club continuing to attract high-profile talent as investment and interest in the team continue to increase.
Cook’s admiration for the club’s support is particularly noteworthy, having experienced the atmosphere generated by Wrexham fans from the opposite side of the pitch during previous meetings between the clubs.
The 21-year-old forward scored the last time the sides met, which included a goal in the title-decider, in which Cook celebrated with Cardiff City’s ayatollah celebration right in front of the Wrexham fans when Cardiff took the lead.
Sugarman Delighted to Land Promising forward
Head coach Jenny Sugarman expressed her excitement after securing the signing, praising both Cook’s qualities on the pitch and her mentality away from it.
“She has consistently performed in a top side and offers a front foot mentality and is a highly ambitious young woman,” Sugarman said.
“We saw first-hand last season Mikayla’s attacking threat, tireless running, and set piece quality.
“We are excited to support the next step in her development here at Wrexham.”
Sugarman’s comments underline why Cook was viewed as such an attractive target. Her ability to influence matches in multiple ways, whether through goals, assists, pressing intensity or dead-ball situations, makes her a valuable addition to the squad.
At just 21 years of age, Cook also has considerable room for further development, something Wrexham will hope to unlock as they continue building for the future.
A Major Boost for Wrexham’s Ambitions
The signing represents another statement of intent from Wrexham as they prepare for the new season.
Adding a player who has won multiple league titles, lifted major domestic trophies and earned Team of the Season recognition strengthens an already ambitious squad. Furthermore, Cook’s arrival brings proven top-level Adran Premier experience and an attacking output that few players in the division can match.
For Wrexham supporters, the acquisition of one of Cardiff City’s standout performers is an exciting development ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
If Cook can replicate the form that saw her score nine goals and provide 10 assists last season, Wrexham may have secured one of the most impactful signings of the summer transfer window.
With Katie Barker, Faye Knox and now Mikayla Cook in their ranks, Wrexham boast one of the most exciting attacking trios in Welsh football. The big question heading into next season is just how devastating they can be together and whether they can fire the Red Dragons to a historic treble.
