Which Lionesses are from Greater Manchester? Local England stars past and present

MCRJourno

As England’s Lionesses continue to inspire a generation, Greater Manchester has proudly produced some of the country’s most iconic women’s footballers.

From World Cup goal scorers to England staples, these players represent the strength of local grassroots football.

Whether you're searching for "which Lionesses are from Manchester" or want to learn more about female footballers with local roots, here's your go-to guide.

Ella Toone (Manchester United & England)

Born and raised in Tyldesley, Wigan, Ella Toone is one of the most celebrated Lionesses of her generation. A Manchester United academy graduate, she became a household name after scoring in the Euro 2022 final and the 2023 World Cup semi-final.

She is Manchester through and through - and a fan favourite at Old Trafford.

Abbie McManus (Prestwich-born, ex-England)

A Prestwich native, Abbie McManus rose through the ranks at Bury Girls and Manchester City’s youth system.

She later played for both City and United, earning 18 caps for England. Her local roots and leadership made her a visible role model for aspiring Greater Manchester footballers.

Amanda Barr (Stockport-born, former Lioness)

Amanda Barr, born in Stockport, represented England 39 times between 2001 and 2007, scoring 10 goals.

A trailblazer in the early 2000s, Barr’s success paved the way for more Greater Manchester talent in the women’s game.

Alex Greenwood (Manchester City & England)

Originally from Merseyside, Alex Greenwood has spent much of her playing career in Manchester, captaining Manchester United before joining Manchester City.

With over 100 England caps, Greenwood is one of the most experienced players in the squad and a key part of the Lionesses’ defence.

Why this matters for Manchester girls in football

• Local inspiration: These Lionesses show that world-class football starts in our local parks, school fields and Sunday leagues.

• Community connection: Their careers link WSL clubs like Man Utd and Man City directly to grassroots youth clubs across Greater Manchester.

• Role Models: Players like Toone and McManus grew up in the same boroughs where thousands of girls now lace up boots each weekend.

Not local, but still Manchester icons

While players like Georgia Stanway (from Barrow) and Lucy Bronze (from Berwick-upon-Tweed) aren’t from Greater Manchester, their WSL careers with Manchester City connect them to the region’s football story.

They’re not born-and-bred Mancunians - but they’re still part of the local legacy.

Want more?

We're launching a Greater Manchester Women's Football series featuring profiles on:

• The local girls’ teams that shaped these players

• The grassroots coaches behind their journeys

• How schools and community clubs are growing the next Lionesses

Stay tuned on mcrjourno.co.uk for more features, interviews and coverage of women’s football across Greater Manchester.

Want your girls’ team featured? Get in touch.