Katie Zelem

She started football early and went through Manchester United's youth academy, but had to leave due to the lack of a senior team—only to return and captain the club years later.

In 2022, she scored three goals directly from corner kicks—two in a single game.

Football runs in the family: Her dad, Alan Zelem, was a goalkeeper, and her uncle Peter Zelem also played professionally.

She looked up to Fara Williams, eventually playing alongside her—calling it one of her biggest career honors.

In 2023, she was elected to the PFA Players' Board, becoming a voice for players in the women’s game.

One of the things she likes most about herself is that she’s very chatty and can talk to anyone—a trait she proudly says she inherited from her dad.

Her worst habit is that she absolutely hates doing the dishes, a problem made worse by the fact that her current house doesn’t have a dishwasher.

She feels most at ease while on holiday at the end of the football season.

Katie admits to having a few small superstitions. For matches, she always wears the same sports bra and knickers, warms up wearing some of her jewellery, and puts on her right shin pad before the left.

One song that always makes her feel good is “The One” by Memphis Bleek, as it brings back memories of a fun holiday with her friends.

Her favourite place in the world so far has been Los Angeles. She particularly enjoyed a trip driving Route 66 with friends.