Wales are trying to retain some of their most promising female footballers amid competition from other national teams after Layla Drury switched from Wales youth representation to England. Since 2020, the FAW has focused attempts to develop young female players aged between 11 and 16 on programmes in north and south Wales.
Drury's switch to England
Drury, 17, is a Wrexham-born forward for Manchester United. She previously represented Wales at under-17 level before switching allegiances to England earlier this year. In January, Drury became Manchester United's youngest ever female goalscorer. BBC Sport Wales reported that she has already played eight times for Manchester United's first team.
Adams outlines the challenge
"The market for capturing and retaining talent has become increasingly aggressive," FAW chief football officer David Adams told BBC Sport Wales. He said: "We must make every effort to protect our assets and retain our top talent to protect the future success of the women's national teams." Adams also said: "Our hope is that young female players who were born in Wales feel a sense of belonging to represent Cymru."
FAW development structure
A group of 31 players are involved in three training sessions a week and play games in the FAW's National Academi boys' set-up. There is a further pool of 50 players who compete in Adran Premier academies and train with the FAW's girls' development set-up twice a week. The FAW's development programme has been awarded Fifa academy status. A high proportion of players involved are either dual-qualified or have multi-national heritage. Many players are likely to sign for clubs in England when aged 15 to 16, which can be problematic for the FAW.
Morgan and other player examples
Former captain Kath Morgan said: "I don't think it's a decision based on finances - I think it's more based on the chance to have success in their careers," She also said: "There has to be consistency in creating the pathway," Morgan added: "The crux of it is that if there's a lack of infrastructure and investment, players will inevitably go to where that is offered." Mayzee Davies, Scarlett Hill and Mared Griffiths have broken into Rhian Wilkinson's Wales side after being part of the FAW's development system. Vera Jones is a Welsh-born teenager who is playing for England. She spent five years in Barry Town's academy before joining Chelsea in 2024 and is currently on loan at Watford. Jones made her England Under-17 debut in 2023 and featured alongside Drury in the U20 Women's World Cup squad. Because Jones did not play for Wales before committing to England, she would potentially be eligible to switch to Wales if she does not go on to play senior football for England.
