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Beth Lindop
MANCHESTER — While many professional soccer players use their summer break to escape to glamorous destinations like Ibiza or Dubai, Manchester United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, 29, took a different approach this offseason, focusing on expanding her knowledge and experiences.
“I had the privilege of working with a remarkable researcher named Dr. Rosa Vásquez Espinoza,” Tullis-Joyce shared with ESPN. “Her research on stingless bees marries indigenous wisdom with scientific insight, and I got the chance to shadow her in the stunning Amazon rainforest. It was an eye-opening experience, but I was certainly eager to return to my teammates and dive back into training.”
Her relentless drive for self-improvement, paired with her exceptional skills, has turned Tullis-Joyce into a fan favorite at United. After joining the club from the NWSL side Seattle Reign in 2023, she has effortlessly transitioned from serving as a backup to Mary Earps to establishing herself as the team’s undisputed number one, earning consistent call-ups to the United States women’s national team.
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Last season, Tullis-Joyce started every game in the Women’s Super League for United and shared the Golden Glove award with Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton as her team finished in third place. She rightfully earned a spot in the 2025 PFA Team of the Year, contributing significantly to United’s qualification for the UEFA Women’s Champions League main draw for the first time in its new format, helping form the league’s joint-best defense this season.
Despite the remarkable achievements, Tullis-Joyce’s journey to the top required patience and resilience. She reflects on times early in her career when she struggled to afford basic necessities and had to wait for an entire season to make her WSL debut after moving to United.
“I understood the circumstances when I arrived here, especially with Mary Earps already in the squad,” she explains. “Working alongside her was invaluable in grasping the demands and expectations of being a Manchester United goalkeeper. It was a period of hard work away from the limelight, which ultimately prepared me for the role of starting goalkeeper.”
Taking over from a high-profile figure like Earps is no easy task for anyone, but when Earps departed United for Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024, Tullis-Joyce was ready to seize her opportunity.
“My career trajectory has been quite the journey, and I feel fortunate to have been surrounded by supportive teammates and staff,” she says. “The first match I played for United, captain Maya [Le Tissier] turned to me and advised, ‘Just enjoy it.’ This shows the trust and camaraderie within our team, creating a special atmosphere to be a part of.”
Tullis-Joyce achieved an impressive 13 clean sheets in the WSL last season, conceding only 16 goals throughout the campaign as United finished ahead of local rivals Manchester City in third place. Her stellar form earned her a long-term contract extension with the club earlier this year.
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Tullis-Joyce’s outstanding save secures a lead for Man United.
Phallon Tullis-Joyce makes a remarkable save against Atletico Madrid in the Women’s Champions League.
“With her in goal, I believe we can win titles,” Skinner stated about the decision to extend Tullis-Joyce’s stay until 2028. “Key players are essential for a manager, and Phallon is one of those. Not only is she an exceptional goalkeeper, but she is also a wonderful person. It’s crucial that we build a team of not only talented players but also great individuals, and she embodies both qualities. I’m excited to continue developing strong teams with her as part of them.”
This praise from the United manager highlights Tullis-Joyce’s integral role in the squad as the team aims for their first WSL title. Currently sitting in third place with an unbeaten record this season, Tullis-Joyce is optimistic about United’s chances in the title race.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved last season,” she reflects. “Securing Champions League football was a culmination of our hard work and determination to be in the top three. Now, I’m excited to build on that success.”
“This league is thrilling—I love it! Every league I’ve played in has its own unique qualities, but the WSL features incredible talents, fantastic teams, and brilliant tactics that challenge you to perform at your best.”
Beyond her club contributions, Tullis-Joyce is also establishing herself on the national stage. After debuting for the USWNT in a 2-0 victory over Brazil in April, Tullis-Joyce is becoming an essential player in the squad’s future. She is expected to be involved in the upcoming match against Portugal in Pennsylvania this week.
“Phallon has significantly elevated her game through her experiences in England,” Hayes commented prior to the match. “She has progressively improved since her time in Seattle. I often reflect on how it took time for Alyssa Naeher to establish herself as the USWNT’s number one goalkeeper back in 2017. It’s a process, and Phallon is on the right track.”
For Tullis-Joyce, the journey to becoming the nation’s top goalkeeper has been extensive but rewarding, and as both United and the USWNT strive for major success in the future, she feels there are still many stories left to unfold.
“I consider myself fortunate in my journey. I’ve put myself in situations that have led to these opportunities, but I owe a lot to the belief and support of the staff I’ve worked with,” she says. “Emma possesses valuable knowledge, but she also understands the emotional aspects of coaching. She makes an effort to connect with her players personally. She immediately made an effort to understand me as a person, but she also holds high expectations, which motivates me even more. I am determined to continue excelling for her, for Marc, for the club, and for my country.”