Tue Oct 01 08:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Arsenal Women’s Starlet Katie Reid Signs Professional Contract

**London, England** – Arsenal Women’s Football Club has announced that young defender Katie Reid has signed her first professional contract with the club. The 18-year-old centre-back has been a rising star in the academy system, impressing at both the Under 16 and Under 21 levels.

Reid, an England youth international, joined Arsenal’s academy in 2019 at the age of 13. Her impressive performances culminated in a key role in the Under 21 team’s PGA Southern League title win in the 2023/24 season.

Despite her young age, Reid has already made several appearances for the first-team squad, including her debut in a 5-0 victory over Bristol City in the Barclays Women’s Super League in April 2024. She also recently joined the club’s pre-season tour in Washington D.C., where she started and played the full 90 minutes against Washington Spirit.

“I’m so proud to be putting pen to paper on a professional contract at a club that means so much to me,” said Reid. “Ever since I was a kid and first started playing football, this is what I always aspired to so it means the world. I want to keep working hard and progressing and I can’t wait to continue my development here with Arsenal.”

Arsenal’s Head of Player Development, James Honeyman, expressed his pride in Reid’s journey, highlighting the club’s commitment to providing clear pathways for young talent. “We’re so proud of Katie’s journey, making her way up through our academy and settling into the first-team squad so well,” he said.

Clare Wheatley, Director of Women’s Football at Arsenal, echoed Honeyman’s sentiments, stating that Reid’s dedication and hard work have earned her this deserved opportunity. “We’re delighted that Katie will be continuing her journey with us in the first team,” she said. “She has been a key part of our academy sides throughout her time here and has stepped up impressively to first-team level in recent weeks and months.”

Everyone at Arsenal is excited for Reid’s future at the club and looks forward to watching her continued development.

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