Toni Duggan signs for FC Barcelona Women

FC Barcelona Women have completed the signing of England international Toni Duggan on a two-year deal.

The 25 year-old, who joins the club with immediate effect until 30 June 2019, was born in Liverpool and trained by Everton. Toni was at Manchester City for the last four seasons, where she won the Women’s Super League in 2016.

Toni is a forward who can play through the middle or out on the wings. She has a powerful shot, great skill and is strong with both feet. She is currently preparing for the European Championships in Holland this summer with the England national team, with whom she finished third at the 2015 World Cup.

Toni said: “For me, FC Barcelona is the biggest club in the world and naturally I wanted to come here and be part of it. I have had a lot of success in England but I want to have even more. I think I need another trophy in my list and I know that Barça's ambition is to win the Champions League - this is my goal too.

“I am really looking forward to the new season, it’s going to be a new challenge for me but one that I will relish. Obviously, FC Barcelona are known worldwide for playing attractive football and I think it will suit my style. After seeing the facilities and meeting the people here I’m really looking forward to getting started.”

“It was particularly great to meet Fran Sánchez. I have read all about him and his fantastic CV. Coming into the women’s team, playing for Fran and learning from his experiences will be a real honour.

“I am looking to learn as much as I can from the manager, coaching staff and all the team. Fran has been at the club for a long time in the past so he knows the Barça style and the way, it’s something that I  have fully bought into.

“Barça have grown a lot in recent years, particularly in women’s football. I am very confident that together we can take it to the next level. The club have made their intentions very clear with their signings over the years.

"On a personal level, I am a striker and I obviously want to score goals. I like to be in the box. But, creating chances is also very important to me, as is working for my team-mates on the pitch and with the whole team generally.

“I like Luis Suárez and his style of play. I’m from Liverpool and grew up as a Liverpool fan so he has obviously been a great role model for me. His style of play is like he’s just playing with his mates in the streets sometimes. I love that style and that’s the way I try to be too. Hopefully I can bring to the women’s team what he’s brought to the men’s team.”