As a youngster, Hayley Ladd began her football career within the youth system at Arsenal, laying the foundation for what was to come. She moved on from Arsenal to Coventry City, Bristol City, and then Birmingham City vital stops that honed her skills and prepared her for bigger challenges. A brief spell with Kokkola Futis in Finland added an international dimension to her early career.
Ladd joined Manchester United in July 2019, a move that significantly raised her profile. At Manchester United, she adapted seamlessly into holding midfield, with her defensive instincts proving priceless. Controlling the pace of the game with her solid defending skills made her an important mainstay for the team.
Ladd went on to achieve a few milestones during her time at Manchester United, indicating she had several qualities and was talented. She became the sixth player to reach 100 appearances for Manchester United Women, showing consistency and reliability. Her first season with the club was impressive, as she went on to earn the Player of the Year award.
CAPTION: On to the next milestone! 100 games and a legacy built. SOURCE: Instagram Her contributions did not stop at the back, as she scored a total of 12 goals in all competitions for Manchester United. She has been instrumental in guiding the team through thick and thin in the Women's Super League.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2011, Ladd has been an ever-present member of the Wales national team. With over 88 caps, she is one of the most experienced players in this current squad. Able to play in various roles in defense, she has provided stability and leadership whenever called upon.
Ladd's first international goal came in a friendly against Portugal in 2017, then another in a World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan in the same year. The zenith of her international career so far has shown her ability to perform under pressure and adapt to different game scenarios.
Recently Written: Alex Sarr
Aside from football, Ladd is committed to education and personal development. She did her Bachelor of Science in Human Biology at Loughborough University. Currently, she is pursuing an MBA with Longford College, researching environmental sustainability in football—a pursuit that shows her interest in the wider ramifications of the sport and her commitment to making an impact.
CAPTION: Balancing the books and the ball—Hayley Ladd’s got it all. SOURCE: Instagram Besides this, Ladd has UEFA A and B coaching licenses, among others, such as Level 1 Talent ID and Opposition Analysis. These licenses indicate that she is ambitious to play football even after retirement.
In January 2025, Ladd finished her transfer to Everton Women from Manchester United, signaling a new journey in her professional life. Her move reflects this desire for newer challenges and aligning with the Everton way of playing.
Ladd expressed enthusiasm for contributing to a team that values control and possession football, which suits her playing philosophy. The transfer is part of Everton's effort to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window to raise the Women's Super League.
With the signing of Ladd, it is expected to add a different flair to Everton's performance. The experience and flexibility in position would certainly add a tactical option to the side in game situations. So far this season, other signings by the club include Kelly Gago, Martina Fernandez, and Emma Watson, part of its strengthening process; with them combined, Ladd has a goal of changing the fortunes of Everton and elevating their league position in the Women's Super League.
CAPTION: Hayley Ladd’s arrival at Everton marks the start of something special. SOURCE: Instagram Most of all, Ladd's capability to play both in defense and midfield will be crucial, as it will provide Everton with options for changing the line-up according to opponents and game conditions.
For more interesting bios, news, and gossip, visit Playerswiki.
