Ruby Mace Joins Everton Women After Stressful Transfer Negotiations

In the world of women’s football, Ruby Mace’s transfer from Leicester City to Everton Women has been quite the saga. The 21-year-old midfielder, celebrated for her talent and grit, now holds the title of Everton’s record signing—a huge milestone in her young career.

As Mace gets ready for her Everton debut, let’s dig into the path that led her to Goodison Park. What pushed her to make the leap, and what hurdles did she have to clear along the way?

Ruby Mace: A Rising Star in Women’s Football

Mace’s journey to becoming Everton Women’s record signing really shows how much she cares about the game. At just 21, she’s already made a mark as one of England’s top young midfielders.

Her move from Leicester City to Everton wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. The two clubs wrestled over her all summer, and the final transfer fee broke club records.

The Signing Process

Nothing about the transfer process felt simple. Everton started with an offer of £100,000, but the final fee ended up much higher—stakes were sky-high.

Mace wanted to join Everton as soon as she heard they were interested. Long talks with head coach Brian Sorensen and new teammate Yuka Momiki helped seal the deal, even though she still had a year left on her Leicester contract.

Challenges and Stress

The weeks before the move were tough. Mace felt the pressure and uncertainty of becoming a record signing, and it definitely got to her.

She leaned on her tattoos for comfort—little reminders of her values and what keeps her going. On her left wrist, she inked *Be You. Smile*, a nod to her belief that happiness fuels her best football.

Family Support and Sacrifices

Mace’s family has always had her back. Her parents, Paula and Colin, have clocked endless hours on motorways, shuttling her to training and matches.

Without their dedication, who knows if she’d have made it this far?

The Role of Siblings

Her siblings, especially her brother Charlie, have played their part too. Charlie went through youth systems at Arsenal, Chelsea, and Spurs, and he’s always encouraged her, even if he didn’t turn pro himself.

He even hopped on Zoom calls with Everton, offering advice and support during the big decision.

Memories and Milestones

Mace’s tattoos mark the big moments in her career. Her right forearm carries the date of her first England cap—December 3, 2024.

Each tattoo tells a piece of her story, from sacrifices to family love to the support that’s shaped her.

Looking Ahead: Mace’s Future at Everton

Now that the transfer’s done, Mace is focusing on what’s next. She thinks Everton gives her the right stage to show everything she’s learned so far.

The Friedkin Group’s arrival as owners has given Everton a new sense of stability and ambition. That matters when you’re trying to attract players like Mace who want to settle in and grow.

Debut and Expectations

Mace’s hoping to make her debut in Everton’s Women’s Super League opener against Liverpool at Anfield. She’s trained with the team twice and feels good after bouncing back from a knee injury in March.

Starting the season with a high-profile clash at Anfield? That’s the kind of challenge she craves, and she’s eager to make her mark.

Aspirations with England

Beyond her club goals, Mace wants to add to her single England cap. She figures her time at Everton will give her the exposure and experience she needs to get there.