Sophie Baggaley returns to Birmingham City on two-year deal

Birmingham City have completed the signing of Sophie Baggaley on a two-year contract with an option for a further year. The 29-year-old goalkeeper, who left Brighton at the end of her contract, returns to the club where she began her journey at the age of six.

What does Baggaley bring to Birmingham City?

Baggaley’s return adds experience and leadership to Birmingham City’s goalkeeping group. She arrives with 42 appearances for Brighton and a Women’s Super League (WSL) profile built over recent seasons. Manager Amy Merricks highlighted her WSL experience and competitive edge as key assets for the Blues, who finished 10th in the Championship last season with 64 points from 46 games.

Why this move matters for the Blues

The signing comes as Birmingham City push to strengthen their squad after a campaign in which they scored 57 goals but conceded 56, leaving them one goal above the drop zone. Baggaley’s arrival adds depth and competition in goal, a department that has seen turnover in recent years. Her return also reflects the club’s investment in the women’s team, which she herself acknowledged as a factor in her decision.

Baggaley’s career path to Birmingham

After leaving Birmingham City at 18, Baggaley spent time at Bristol City and Manchester United before joining Brighton in 2023. She was Brighton’s player of the season in her debut campaign but found minutes harder to come by after the arrival of Nigerian international Chiamaka Nnadozie. Her England call-ups since 2025 underscore her standing, though she is yet to earn a senior cap.

What happens next for Birmingham City?

With the new season not yet under way, Birmingham City will look to build on last season’s 10th-place finish. Baggaley’s arrival gives manager Merricks options as the Blues aim to push up the table, currently 31 points behind league leaders Coventry. The Blues kick off their next campaign with renewed ambition in goal.

League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 10th in Championship, 64 pts, 17W-13D-16L from 46 games, recent form DWWDW.