Aston Villa announced the loan signing of Lily Murphy from Manchester City in August 2026.

The 20-year-old forward joined Villa for the duration of the 2026/27 season.

Murphy joined Manchester City’s Academy in 2022 before progressing into the first team. She made her senior competitive debut in a UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifying victory over Paris FC in September 2024 before enjoying a breakthrough campaign with City.

The forward scored her first senior goal on her first start for Manchester City in a 2-0 UEFA Women’s Champions League victory over St. Pölten, earning Player of the Match honours. She has also represented England throughout the youth pathway and most recently featured for the Young Lionesses at Under-20 level.