Layla Drury scores on debut to become Manchester United's youngest goalscorer

Drury scored her first goal in front of a vocal home crowd at Leigh’s Progress With Unity Stadium.

Layla Drury made history on Sunday, becoming both the youngest-ever player to represent Manchester United Women, and the Club’s youngest-ever goalscorer.

At just 16 years and 220 days old, Layla first broke the appearance record held by Lauren James since 2018, coming on as a 66th-minute substitute in United's 5-0 Women’s FA Cup victory over Burnley at the Progress With Unity Stadium in Leigh.

Ten minutes later, the youth international then made it a dream debut as she latched onto Hinata Miyazawa’s forward pass and coolly slotted past the onrushing goalkeeper with a composed first-time finish on her left foot.

The goal not only sealed an emphatic win for United but also made Layla the club's youngest-ever goalscorer - across both the men's and women's teams.

Speaking to MUTV after the match, an overwhelmed Layla reflected on her unforgettable day:

"I didn't expect to come on today, and to score on my debut as well – grateful is an understatement! I'm thankful to everyone. I think the team did really well to even allow me to come into the game. They all encourage me in training and they just say: 'Go be yourself out there.' So, I'm really proud of the team, to win today, and I'm really happy to get a goal."

Layla, who joined United's Academy in November 2024, had been an unused substitute in the two previous matches against Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal. Her debut marks another significant milestone for the Club's academy pathway and is a testament to her rapid development during the past year.