Peterborough United Women confirm their sixth signing of the summer as attacking midfielder Emily Meli joins from Nottingham Forest for the 2024/25 campaign.
The 16-year-old, known to fans as 'Trialist B', has appeared in each pre-season fixture so far, most notably making an impact in Thursday evening’s friendly against Cambridge United Women where she claimed a brace in the final minutes.
Meli will be making her first step into senior football after spending five seasons in the academy at Leicester City and most recently at Nottingham Forest.
The teenager said her first footballing memories were as soon as she could walk: “Whatever my older brother did I wanted to do as well - I joined my first boy’s club at about 7 or 8.”
Speaking on the difference between academy and senior football, Meli said: “It was a massive step up, it was really shocking going from an U16 level to a First Team level.
“Seeing older people play better, faster football makes me think I’ll become better from playing with them as well.”
When asked what about the club attracted her, Meli said: “The facilities and everyone seems really welcoming and friendly. Jake was really warm, telling me how my pathway could be if I came here and how much it would make me grow.”
Manager Jake Poole is delighted to welcome Meli to the squad: “Emily is a young player who comes to us with bags of talent and room for growth.
“She has thrived in her first taste of senior football and I am excited to see where her development takes her in the coming months.”
General Manager Sam Winch added: “I'm really pleased that we have secured Emily’s signature for the new season. In her short time with us, she has already demonstrated some of her attacking prowess and her potential as a forward player.
“She is an excellent young talent, and I know she will quickly become a fan favourite.
“I would like to give a big warm welcome to both Emily and her family, wishing her lots of success for the season ahead.”