Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Manu Baptista Filipe has joined the Bit O’Red ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 23-year-old midfielder arrives at the Showgrounds following her time in the United States, where she combined her studies with a strong collegiate football career.
Originally from Porto, Manu developed her game at Sporting Clube de Braga, progressing through the club’s academy system between 2017 and 2020. During her development years, she also gained recognition at U16 underage international level, taking part in Portugal national training camps and highlighting her potential from an early age.
Manu later relocated to the United States to continue both her football and education in the collegiate system. She completed a degree in International Business and a Master’s in Education while competing at a high level of college football.
Reflecting on the challenges of moving abroad, Manu said:
“When I arrived in the United States, I didn’t speak English, so it was a tough adjustment. Covid was at its peak when I moved, which made it even more challenging. I had to quarantine for ten days when I arrived, and I remember thinking, ‘What am I doing here?’ It wasn’t until my first training session that I felt at home.”
Manu now continues her football journey in Ireland, bringing versatility and intelligence to the Sligo Rovers midfield. A right-footed midfielder, she enjoys being on the ball, linking play, and initiating attacks from deeper areas.
“I like to be involved in the game as much as possible. I enjoy short passing, give-and-go movements, and playing under pressure. I like to help start attacks and contribute on set pieces. I work hard, I am adaptable, and I like to communicate on the pitch. I always want to help the players around me improve.”
On her decision to join Sligo Rovers, Manu highlighted both the football opportunity and her early impressions of the town and club:
“I’m really excited to get going at Sligo Rovers. I’ve only been in Sligo a few days, but I love it already. It’s a cosy town, and you can see the love for football straight away. The people have been so welcoming, which has made the move easier.”
A familiar coaching connection also influenced her return to Europe.
“Ciaran Fadden was my assistant coach when I was in America, so we always kept in touch. I was interested in coming back to Europe, and when the opportunity arose, it felt like the right move for me.”
Rovers manager Gavin Hughes believes Manu will bring strong technical quality and tactical awareness to the squad.
“Manu stood out during recruitment because of her composure on the ball and her ability to influence games from midfield. From her early training sessions, you can see her understanding of space, her work rate, and her constant involvement in play.”
Hughes also highlighted how her style fits the team’s philosophy:
“She suits the way we want to play. She is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, keeps possession moving, and has the vision to link defence and attack. Players with that level of awareness are extremely valuable.”
Off the pitch, Hughes expects Manu to positively influence the squad environment:
“She is a strong communicator and has already integrated well with the group. She brings energy, positivity, and enthusiasm, which will be important as we continue to build a competitive and supportive environment at Sligo Rovers.”
With the addition of Manu Baptista Filipe, the squad now stands at twenty players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, and Sydney Stephens.
Jack Dempsey