Sophie Baggaley signs for Birmingham City on a free transfer after leaving Brighton at the end of her contract.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper returns to the club where she began her career and made her senior debut in 2014.
Birmingham confirmed Baggaley’s arrival on Friday after winning promotion back to the Women’s Super League.
The goalkeeper first joined the club at the age of six before progressing through its academy. She later represented Bristol City and Manchester United before moving to Brighton in September 2023.
“When you start your career somewhere, you always have a soft spot for it,” Baggaley told Birmingham’s official website.
Baggaley said Birmingham helped to create the foundations for her career. She now hopes to give something back as the club prepares for its return to the top flight.
Sophie Baggaley signs for Birmingham City after Brighton exit
Baggaley made more than 40 appearances during her three seasons with Brighton. She was voted Albion’s player of the season following her first campaign and became a dependable WSL goalkeeper.
However, her opportunities became limited following the arrival of Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Dario Vidosic still praised Baggaley’s attitude and performances in training. The Brighton head coach said she was fully deserving of her rare start against Tottenham towards the end of last season.
Brighton announced on 2 June that Baggaley would leave when her contract expired at the end of that month. Libby Bance also departed, while Rosa Kafaji returned to Arsenal following her loan spell.
Birmingham manager Amy Merricks believes the goalkeeper will provide experience, leadership and strong competition within her squad.
Sophie Baggaley signs for Birmingham City with a genuine opportunity to play regularly again. The move also allows her to begin a new chapter at the club where her senior career started.
