Ella Toone is a professional English footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Manchester United in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and the England national team. Born on September 2, 1999, in Tyldesley, Greater Manchester, she has become one of the most recognizable faces in the global game. Toone is Manchester United’s all-time leading appearance maker and top goalscorer, having been a part of the club since its professional reformation in 2018. Internationally, she gained legendary status by scoring the opening goal in the Euro 2022 final at Wembley, helping the Lionesses secure their first major trophy.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about Ella Toone’s journey from a young United fan to a European champion. We cover her early years at Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City, her record-breaking stats at Manchester United, and her pivotal role in England’s recent tournament successes. Additionally, we explore her life off the pitch, including her business ventures, family background, and the “ET7” brand.
Early Life and Youth Career
Ella Toone was raised in Tyldesley, a town in the Wigan borough of Greater Manchester, where her passion for football began at a very young age. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, she was encouraged by her father, Nick Toone, to pursue her talent, eventually joining her local grassroots club, Astley & Tyldesley Girls.
At the age of eight, Toone joined the Manchester United youth academy, where she spent over six years developing her technical skills. However, because Manchester United did not have a senior women’s team at the time, she was forced to look elsewhere to begin her professional career, a move that eventually led her to Blackburn Rovers.
Breakthrough at Blackburn Rovers
In 2013, Toone signed for Blackburn Rovers to continue her development in their youth ranks before breaking into the senior first team in 2015. During her time in the FA Women’s Premier League Northern Division, she proved to be a prolific young talent, scoring 13 goals in 20 appearances during her debut senior season.
Her performances at Blackburn were so impressive that she attracted interest from top-tier clubs while still a teenager. By the end of her stint at Rovers, she had scored a total of 26 goals in just 33 appearances, cementing her reputation as one of the most clinical young finishers in the country.
Move to Manchester City
Toone moved to Manchester City in the summer of 2016 to test herself at the highest level of English football. While at City, she made her senior debut in an 8-0 Continental Cup win over Aston Villa, though she found regular first-team minutes difficult to come by due to the star-studded nature of the squad.
Despite the lack of game time, Toone was part of the squad that won the WSL title and the FA Women’s League Cup in 2016. Her time at City was a crucial learning period, but when the opportunity arose to return to her childhood club, she did not hesitate to make the switch.
Returning to Manchester United
In July 2018, Ella Toone became one of the first seven players to sign for the newly formed Manchester United Women’s professional team. Returning to the club she supported as a child, she was handed the number 7 shirt and quickly became the focal point of the team’s attack under manager Casey Stoney.
She made her competitive debut in August 2018 during a 1-0 League Cup win against Liverpool. Toone’s impact was immediate, scoring her first league goal in a 12-0 victory over Aston Villa and helping United secure promotion to the WSL in their very first season.
Record-Breaking Manchester United Stats
Since United’s promotion to the top flight, Toone has consistently been the club’s most productive player. In April 2022, she made history by becoming the first player to reach 100 appearances for the Manchester United Women’s team.
As of early 2026, Toone has surpassed 210 appearances for the club and holds the record for the most goals scored in United’s history. Her ability to contribute both goals and assists from the number 10 role has made her an indispensable asset for manager Marc Skinner and a firm favorite among the Old Trafford faithful.
England National Team Rise
Toone’s international journey began with the England youth setups, representing the Lionesses at the 2016 FIFA U17 World Cup in Jordan. She made her senior international debut in February 2021, scoring a penalty in a 6-0 win against Northern Ireland, which marked the start of a meteoric rise under manager Sarina Wiegman.
Her habit of scoring in big games became her trademark, notably netting a hat-trick against Latvia in late 2021. By the time Euro 2022 arrived, Toone had established herself as the ultimate “super-sub,” a role she would use to change the course of English football history.
Euro 2022 Glory at Wembley
The pinnacle of Toone’s career came during the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, held in England. After scoring a vital equalizer in the quarter-final against Spain, she produced a moment of magic in the final against Germany at a sold-out Wembley Stadium.
In the 62nd minute, Toone ran onto a long ball and perfectly lobbed the German goalkeeper to give England the lead. The Lionesses went on to win 2-1 after extra time, and Toone’s iconic celebration and goal remains one of the most famous moments in the history of the women’s game.
2023 World Cup Performance
Toone continued her fine international form into the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. She started the tournament’s final three knockout matches, including the semi-final against the host nation, Australia.
In that semi-final, Toone scored a stunning opening goal, firing into the top corner to help England reach their first-ever World Cup final. Although the Lionesses narrowly lost 1-0 to Spain in the final, Toone’s performance solidified her status as a world-class attacking midfielder.
Playing Style and Technical Analysis
Ella Toone is primarily utilized as an attacking midfielder or a “number 10,” known for her exceptional spatial awareness and technical ability. She is frequently compared to Thomas Müller for her “Raumdeuter” (space investigator) style, finding gaps between opposition defensive lines that others miss.
Technically, Toone excels at long-range shooting, creative through-balls, and late runs into the penalty area. Her high work rate also allows her to contribute to the team’s defensive press, making her a versatile modern midfielder who can adapt to various tactical systems.
Personal Life and Family
Toone remains deeply connected to her roots in Tyldesley and often credits her family for her success. Her mother, Karen, was a gymnast, while her late father, Nick, was her biggest supporter and a regular fixture at her matches until his passing in 2024.
She is currently in a long-term relationship with fellow footballer Joe Bunney. Toone is known for her bubbly personality and “Northern” wit, which she shares with fans through her popular YouTube channel and social media presence, where she has millions of followers.
Business Ventures and ET7 Brand
Beyond the pitch, Ella Toone has built a significant commercial profile, launching her own brand, ET7. She was the first Lioness to trademark her name, using the platform to launch a football academy aimed at inspiring young girls in her hometown.
Toone has secured high-profile endorsements with global brands such as Nike and Charlotte Tilbury. Her commercial success reflects the growing marketability of women’s football stars, and she uses her influence to advocate for better facilities and opportunities for grassroots players.
Career Honors and Achievements
Toone’s trophy cabinet is a testament to her impact on the game at both club and international levels. In addition to her team trophies, she has received numerous individual accolades, including the Manchester United Player of the Year award.
Major Honors include:
- UEFA Women’s Championship: 2022, 2025
- Women’s FA Cup: 2023-24
- FA Women’s Championship: 2018-19
- Women’s Finalissima: 2023
- Arnold Clark Cup: 2022, 2023
Contract Status and Future
In November 2022, Ella Toone signed a long-term contract extension with Manchester United, initially set to keep her at the club until June 2026. However, following her continued excellence, the club triggered an extension in early 2026 to secure her services until the summer of 2027.
While there is always speculation regarding interest from major European clubs like Barcelona or Lyon, Toone has consistently expressed her desire to win the WSL title with her childhood club. Her future remains tied to United’s ambitions of becoming the dominant force in English football.
Impact on Women’s Football
Ella Toone’s impact extends far beyond the goals she scores; she is a pioneer for the “professional era” of the women’s game. As a relatable, local hero, she has played a major role in the explosion of interest in the WSL and the England national team.
The “Ella Toone Pitch” in Wigan, funded by the Football Foundation, stands as a physical legacy of her contribution to the sport. She continues to be a vocal advocate for mental health and professional standards, ensuring that the next generation of players has a clearer path to success than she did.
Practical Information for Fans
If you are looking to support Ella Toone or watch her play live, here is the essential information for the 2025/2026 season.
- Home Ground: Manchester United Women play most home games at Leigh Sports Village, with select high-profile matches at Old Trafford.
- Tickets: Matches typically cost between £12 and £15 for adults, with family packages available. Tickets can be purchased via the official Manchester United website.
- Merchandise: The “Toone 7” shirt is the most popular jersey in the United women’s store.
- Social Media: You can follow her updates on Instagram (@ellatoone) and her YouTube channel for behind-the-scenes content.
- Watching Abroad: WSL matches are frequently broadcast on Sky Sports, BBC, and the FA Player.
Youth Career Beginnings
Toone signed her first senior contract with Blackburn Rovers at age 14 in 2013, debuting in the FA Women’s Premier League Northern Division. She scored on debut and netted 28 goals in her first full season, earning player of the season honors and promotion push momentum. Her explosive pace and left foot made her a standout in non-league football. Progressing rapidly, she attracted scouts from bigger clubs, balancing A-level studies in sports science with weekend warriors performances. This phase built her physicality, crucial for higher levels.
Move to Manchester City
In 2016, at 16, Toone joined Manchester City, winning the Women’s Super League, League Cup, and FA Cup in her debut season. She featured in 20 matches, scoring key goals including in cup finals, adapting quickly to elite competition. Under manager Nick Cushing, she developed midfield control alongside stars like Izzy Christiansen.
City’s youth setup polished her decision-making, with loans back to lower divisions sharpening match fitness. By 2018, she was ready for a bigger stage.
Joining Manchester United
Toone signed with Manchester United in July 2018 upon the club’s women’s team revival, becoming a foundational player. She scored a debut hat-trick against Liverpool in August 2018, signaling her intent in the Championship. United won promotion that season, with her 12 goals pivotal. Since then, she’s made over 150 appearances, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer with more than 70 goals by 2026. Her loyalty to her boyhood club, symbolized by tattoos, underscores deep emotional ties.
Record-Breaking Seasons
In 2022-23, Toone hit 14 league goals, leading United to third place. The 2023-24 FA Cup win saw her score in the final against Tottenham. Current 2025-26 WSL stats show three goals and five assists early on, maintaining elite form.
International Debut with England
Toone earned her senior Lionesses call-up in October 2019, debuting against Portugal. She scored her first international goal in 2021 against Northern Ireland. By Euro 2022, she was a squad regular, scoring the opener in the 2-1 final win over Germany on July 31 at Wembley. Her tournament tally included strikes against Spain and Northern Ireland, earning player of the match nods. Post-Euros, she added the Arnold Clark Cup in 2022 and 2023.
World Cup and Euros Success
At the 2023 World Cup, Toone scored in the 1-0 semi-final quarter over Australia, reaching her first major final. England won Euro 2025 in Switzerland, her second Euros triumph. She holds records for goals in knockout stages across tournaments.
Playing Style and Strengths
Toone excels as a number 10, combining dribbling flair with lethal finishing, often cutting in from the left. Her 20-yard screamers, like the Euro 2022 semi-final stunner, define her threat. Pace, work rate off-ball, and vision create 10+ assists per season. Comparisons to Wayne Rooney highlight her Manchester roots and goal hunger. Weaknesses like occasional decision lapses are offset by improving composure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many goals has Ella Toone scored for Manchester United?
As of March 2026, Ella Toone has scored 64 goals in all competitive competitions for Manchester United. She is the club’s all-time leading goalscorer and was the first player to reach both the 100 and 200 appearance milestones for the women’s senior team.
Does Ella Toone have an MBE?
Yes, Ella Toone was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2026 New Year Honours list. The honor was bestowed for her services to association football, particularly following England’s continued success in international tournaments.
Is Ella Toone injured?
In early 2026, Ella Toone suffered a hip injury (described as a bone stress response) that sidelined her for the early part of the year. This injury caused her to miss the 2026 League Cup final and the initial Lionesses camp for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers, though she is expected to return to full fitness by the late 2025/26 season.
What is Ella Toone’s current contract status?
In January 2026, Manchester United exercised a contract option to extend Toone’s stay at the club. She is currently signed with Manchester United until June 2027, keeping her at the club for at least another full season beyond the current campaign.
How many caps does Ella Toone have for England?
As of early 2026, Toone has earned 68 senior caps for the England national team. During this time, she has scored 24 goals, including pivotal strikes in the Euro 2022 final and the 2023 World Cup semi-final.
What is the ET7 Academy?
The ET7 Academy is Ella Toone’s personal football initiative designed to provide high-quality coaching and mentorship to young girls. Based in her home region of Greater Manchester, the academy aims to bridge the gap between grassroots and professional football.
Who does Ella Toone play for in 2026?
Ella Toone plays for Manchester United in the Women’s Super League (WSL). She wears the number 7 shirt and serves as the team’s primary attacking midfielder.
What major trophies has Ella Toone won?
Toone has won the UEFA Women’s Euros twice (2022 and 2025), the Women’s FA Cup (2023-24), and the FA Women’s Championship (2018-19). She also holds titles from the Women’s Finalissima and multiple Arnold Clark Cups.
What is Ella Toone’s height and playing position?
She stands at 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) and plays as an attacking midfielder or “number 10.” Her style is noted for finding “pockets” of space and making late runs into the box.
Why is Ella Toone famous?
Toone is famous for scoring the opening goal in the Euro 2022 final, which helped England win their first major international trophy. She is also widely recognized for her “Tooney” persona on social media and her status as Manchester United’s most iconic female player.
Final Thoughts
Ella Toone remains the heartbeat of Manchester United Women and a cornerstone of the England Lionesses’ midfield. Her journey from a young girl in Tyldesley to a double European champion (2022 and 2025) and an MBE recipient has fundamentally shifted the perception of women’s football in the UK. By recently extending her commitment to United through 2027, she has sent a clear message that her ambitions are firmly rooted in bringing more silverware to her childhood club.
While her recent 2026 campaign was briefly interrupted by a hip injury, her influence off the pitch continues to grow through the ET7 Academy and her advocacy for cancer awareness. Toone’s unique blend of elite technical skill, high-pressure goalscoring, and authentic personality ensures that she will remain one of the most marketable and impactful athletes in the sport for years to come. Whether she is lobbing goalkeepers at Wembley or inspiring the next generation in Wigan, Ella Toone’s legacy is already secured as a pioneer of the professional era.
To Read More: Manchester Independent