Super Falcons fullback joins English WSL side Aston Villa from London City Lionesses

ENGLISH Women's Super League (WSL) side Aston Villa have signed Nigerian fullback Rofiat Imuran from local rivals London City Lionesses on a three year contract ahead of the forthcoming 2026/27 season due to start next weekend.

Last season, Aston Villa Ladies finished the campaign in ninth position and as they start the new campaign away to Chelsea on Saturday, the team has decided to strengthen its side as it aspires to finish higher in the table. Imuran, 22,  joined London City in 2024 after impressing with Nigeria at the 2022 U-20 Women’s World Cup where the Falconets reached the quarter-finals.

Traditionally a leftback, Imuran  was also part of the Super Falcons squad that made history by reaching the Round of 16 at the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Nigeria were eventually knocked out by England in a 4-2 penalty shoot-out after a goalless draw in normal and extra time.

Before moving to England, Imuran began her professional career in France with Reims, where she spent two years with the French club between 2022 and 2024, making more than 30 appearances across all competitions. Aston Villa have officially confirmed Imuran’s arrival on a three-year contract, which  will keep her at the club until 2029.

Imuran said: "I’m very excited to be here and I want to achieve a lot of things. It’s a big club with a lot of history and it has big ambitions and I want to be part of it.”

A modern attack-minded defender, Imuran becomes Villa's ninth arrival of the summer as coach Natalia Arroyo continues to strengthen her squad ahead of the new campaign. Imuran, whose contract is still subject to Home Office approval, will wear the number 22 shirt during the 2026/27 season.