Gwalia United Sign Former Arsenal and England Youth International Daisy Ackerman
Gwalia United FC is delighted to announce the signing of yet another international pedigree player for the upcoming season. The Welsh club have recruited former Arsenal 22‑year‑old attacking fullback Daisy Ackerman, bolstering their ambitions for the upcoming season.
Ackerman, a product of Arsenal and Bristol City has earned international recognition with England, collecting three caps across the U16 and U18 age groups. Now, she links up with manager James Thomas once again, bringing her experience, leadership, and versatility to a Gwalia side intent on pushing standards both on and off the pitch.
“I’m incredibly excited to join Gwalia United,” said Ackerman. “It’s clear that the club has high ambitions and a real sense of purpose about where it wants to go. I can’t wait to get started and contribute to the journey.”
Thomas, who worked closely with Ackerman during their shared time at Bristol City, welcomed the opportunity to coach her once more.
“Daisy is a player I know well and trust,” he said. “Her technical ability is exceptional, but it’s her intelligence off the ball and composure in key moments that really stand out. She’s also a serious threat from set-pieces, which gives us another dimension. I’ve seen her grow as a player and a person, and she brings a level of maturity far beyond her years.”
Ackerman’s arrival is the latest in a series of strong summer moves by Gwalia United, underlining the club’s strategic focus on recruitment with elite development credentials. Co-owner Julian Jenkins highlighted the significance of the signing as part of a wider plan.
“Daisy is our second signing this week who comes from a top-tier academy and has international experience,” Jenkins said. “She represents the kind of quality we’re committed to bringing in—not just to strengthen the team, but to raise the standard across the club. It’s about creating an environment of excellence and building a culture of ambition.”
Ackerman joins a defensive unit already boasting proven talents such as Cerys Jones and Ellie-Mai Sanford. Her arrival further strengthens a new-look spine being assembled at the club, as Gwalia look to establish themselves as serious contenders in the coming seasons.
“Having Daisy on board is a real signal of intent,” Thomas added. “She’s not just here to play—she’s here to lead, to challenge, and to help drive the group forward. We’re building something with long-term vision, and Daisy’s signing is a crucial piece of that.”
