Manchester City goalkeeper Karen Bardsley joins NWSL side OL Reign on loan

Veteran Manchester City goalkeeper Karen Bardsley has joined National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side OL Reign on loan according to reports on the American club’s official website. 

The 36-year-old has struggled for game time at Manchester City since her return from long-term injury with first-choice goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck having been in fine form.

With Bardsley edging towards the end of her playing career, the keeper is keen to be playing regularly and she has today agreed a deal which will see her move to OL Reign on a loan deal until the end of June. She will compete alongside fellow goalkeeper Cosette Morché for the number one jersey during her time in the United States.

Santa Monica-born Bardsley started her playing career in the United States with Ajax America before later representing Pali Blues and Sky Blue FC. The keeper moved to Sweden to join Linkopings in 2011 before enjoying a one-year spell with Lincoln Ladies two years later. Bardsley has been on Manchester City’s books for more than seven years.

During her time with Manchester City, Bardsley has contributed massively to the club’s success. The England International has won a league title, three Women’s FA Cups and three FA Women’s Continental League Cups while she has established herself as a club legend.

French goalkeeper Karima Benameur Taieb will provide cover for first-choice keeper Roebuck during Bardsley’s time in America.

Daniel Pentland

I am the editor and owner of FAWSL Full-Time magazine. I have been reporting on men’s and women’s football at various levels since summer 2015. Some of the events which I have reported from include the 2017 UEFA Women’s European Championship, 2018 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup, FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019, SSE Women’s FA Cup final, Emirates FA Cup final, UEFA Europa League, English Football League and various international matches.

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