Houghton: I believe in this City group | OneFootball

Steph Houghton says she has no doubts that City can compete for major honours across the upcoming season.

Our former captain was speaking at the sold-out City Are Back open training event on Tuesday afternoon as supporters were able to see Andrée Jeglertz and his players on the field at the Joie Stadium.

The Blues were continuing our preparations for the 2025/26 campaign as we look to build on our fourth-place finish in the Barclays Women’s Super League last term.

But with a new manager at the helm alongside fresh playing personnel, Houghton is eager to see City’s progress across the next 12 months.

“This is a big season for us as a club with a new manager and new players and we're going through a little bit of a transitional period which happens with every club,” she said at the City Are Back open training event.

“It's even more important we're able to get the fans on board and start well.

“I believe in the team. We've got such a good set-up away from the pitch as well, so I'm excited to see what we've got this season.

“Everyone knows I absolutely love Manchester City and the fans. There aren't many more special moments than knowing they've got your back and for the women's team it's going to be totally new for everybody, we've got new faces.

“If we can get behind them as much as possible that will drive us on.”

The 2025/26 campaign will be played following a triumphant summer for England who won the 2025 UEFA European Championships.

Among the heroic Lionesses who retained their trophy was City quartet Alex Greenwood, Lauren Hemp, Khiara Keating and Jess Park.

And Houghton says all connected to the Blues should be proud of our quartet’s achievements this summer.

She added: “It was [a] pretty crazy [summer], being there to watch the final and the girls do absolutely unbelievably as a squad.

“But also for the four girls from City, Alex, Khiara, Hempo and Jess we should be so proud of them. To go do that and win a trophy back to back is pretty special. It's been a busy summer but the best one.”