Sam Coffey Bolsters Manchester City Midfield Ahead Of WSL Title Push

Manchester City have confirmed the arrival of United States midfielder Sam Coffey from Portland Thorns, with a reported $800,000 (600,000) transfer bringing a three-and-a-half-year deal, as the Women’s Super League leaders add further depth during a strong domestic campaign.

City sit six points clear at the top of the WSL after 11 wins in 12 matches, having responded to an opening-day loss against holders Chelsea with 11 straight league victories, while fixtures against Bournemouth in the FA Cup and Chelsea in the League Cup await.

The move sees Coffey leave the NWSL mid-career at 27, joining Manchester City until 2029, after captaining Portland Thorns to the National Women’s Soccer League playoff semi-finals last season, where Portland were beaten

2-0 by Washington Spirit in a tight knockout tie.

Coffey’s league numbers from the 2025 NWSL season underline Manchester City’s interest, with the midfielder ranking near the top of several categories among players in the same position, including minutes, tackles, duels and passing volume for Portland throughout the domestic campaign.

Across the 2025 season, Coffey played 2,432 minutes, the third-most of any NWSL midfielder, while winning 46 tackles, the sixth-highest figure, also placing sixth for duels contested and completing 990 passes, which ranked fifth among midfielders across the competition.

The 27-year-old contributed directly to six league goals for Portland in 2025, scoring twice and adding four assists, producing Coffey’s most productive season since recording eight assists in 2023, while also providing leadership as captain during another deep playoff run.

Coffey leaves the Thorns after helping secure the 2022 NWSL title and establishing an international career with 42 United States Women’s National Team appearances, including involvement in Emma Hayes gold-medal-winning squad at the 2024 Olympic Games, further strengthening City’s experience in midfield.

Coffey highlighted Manchester City’s appeal after signing the contract. "City really stood out from the get-go. First and foremost, [it was] the style of play, and when I watch the team, the girls seem happy, close and connected," said Coffey.

Welcome to Manchester, Sam! pic.twitter.com/fQ4ZFxqzfHManchester City Women (@ManCityWomen) January 14, 2026

Coffey described the timing of the switch as an important step. "I think I'm at a place in my career where I feel ready and settled in as a professional. It feels like the right time to really challenge myself in this way. The fact it's official, I'm here and it's all real and happening is just so exciting, and I couldn't be more ready and happy about everything. "

With Manchester City competing for domestic trophies and Coffey arriving with major club and international honours, the signing adds another experienced option to a squad already performing strongly in the Women’s Super League, as the club prepares for key cup and league fixtures.