Manchester United and England footballer Ella Toone has won the Outstanding Contribution to Sport Award at the This Is Manchester Awards.
The 27-year-old, who was included in BusinessCloud’s 2026 Northern Leaders list, founded the ET7 Academy to create more opportunities for the next generation of female footballers.
She is also an ambassador for Prostate Cancer UK following the death of her father.
Commenting on her award, she said: “This city means everything to me. I’ve grown up playing football here, it’s where my journey started and where I’ve had so many opportunities. Manchester is a city that lives and breathes football, and I’ve always been so proud to represent it.
“Now, to have the ET7 Academy here too, giving the next generation of girls opportunities in the game, makes moments like this even more special. It’s always been about giving something back to the city that’s given me so much.
“One of the best parts of the evening was being presented with the award by Emma Fletcher, my old coach. Emma has been part of my journey for a long time, so to have her hand me this award was a proper special moment.
“It’s funny how football brings people back together, and I’ll always appreciate the people who’ve played a part in getting me to where I am today.
“It was also brilliant to be in a room with so many people doing amazing things for Manchester. From Joe Gallagher and Peter Hook to Javeno McLean, there was so much to be inspired by. Different backgrounds and different journeys, but that same love for this city.
“I’ll never take for granted being able to do what I love, represent my city and hopefully make a difference along the way. Manchester, you’ve given me so much. This one’s for you.”