SAN JOSE, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2026) – Bay FC has significantly bolstered its attacking options with the acquisition of forward Keira Barry from Manchester United, the club announced today. The transfer brings the young English player to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) on a four-year contract, extending through 2029, pending receipt of a P-1 Visa and international transfer clearance.
The move represents a notable investment for Bay FC as they continue to build a competitive roster under Head Coach Emma Coates. Barry’s arrival is particularly significant given her prior relationship with Coates, having played under her with the England U-23’s, most recently in the December 2025 international window against Norway and the United States. This existing rapport is expected to facilitate a swift integration into the Bay FC system.
“When the opportunity to join Bay FC came up, it felt like the right move straight away,” Barry stated. “After speaking with Emma and meeting (Sporting Director) Matt Potter and the staff, it was clear that the club’s values, ambition and people aligned with what I’m looking for at this stage of my career. I’m excited for the challenge of playing in a new league, testing myself against top players and experiencing life in the U.S. I believe this is the perfect environment to continue pushing my game forward, and I’m looking forward to showing Bay FC fans what I can bring.”
Coates echoed Barry’s enthusiasm, highlighting the player’s dynamic qualities. “Having worked closely with Keira in England, I’ve seen firsthand the relentless energy and technical quality she brings,” Coates said. “She is a brave, forward-thinking winger who isn’t afraid to take players on and create something out of nothing. Keira has a professional pedigree that fits perfectly with the culture we are building here. We want to be a team that attacks variety, pace and purpose, and Keira is a ‘front-foot’ player who will give us exactly that.”
Barry’s path to Bay FC has involved a series of developmental moves within the English Women’s Super League (WSL). She debuted with Manchester United’s first team in 2022 and signed her first professional contract with the club in 2023, becoming the 13th academy graduate to do so. Her early professional career included a loan spell with Crystal Palace during the 2023-24 season, where she contributed to the club’s WSL 2 title win and promotion to the WSL Super League. Most recently, she spent time on loan at Sunderland ahead of the 2025-26 season, making 13 appearances across all competitions and scoring three goals before being recalled by Manchester United in December.
Prior to her professional career, Barry demonstrated her potential within Manchester United’s youth system, playing a key role in the U-21 side’s success in 2022, securing both the WSL Academy League and Cup titles. She also gained international experience representing England at the U-17 and U-19 levels. A loan stint with Derby County further honed her skills before her breakthrough into the Manchester United first team.
The acquisition of Barry underscores Bay FC’s commitment to building a squad capable of competing at the highest level of the NWSL. The club is offering single-match tickets for all 2026 home matches at PayPal Park, with season ticket memberships also available. This investment in talent, coupled with strategic coaching, positions Bay FC for a potentially impactful season. The club is actively engaging fans through social media channels, including @wearebayfc, to provide updates and build excitement for the upcoming season.
The transfer fee for Barry was not disclosed. However, the four-year contract suggests Bay FC views her as a key component of their long-term plans. The P-1 Visa process, standard for international athletes joining U.S. Professional leagues, will be a crucial step in finalizing the transfer and allowing Barry to join the team.
The NWSL continues to attract international talent, and Bay FC’s successful recruitment of Keira Barry highlights the league’s growing appeal. The club’s ability to secure a player with WSL experience and a proven track record will be closely watched by competitors as the 2026 season approaches. The combination of Barry’s skill set and Coates’ coaching expertise could prove to be a significant advantage for Bay FC as they navigate the challenges of the NWSL.
