Cheltenham Town Women have strengthened their squad by signing promising 18-year-old forward Louise Apuusi-Tchassem from Aston Villa’s Under-21 team.
A key player in Villa’s U21 setup, Apuusi-Tchassem notably contributed to their 2024/25 Plate Final triumph, scoring twice and earning the Player of the Match award. Her move to Cheltenham marks her first step into senior women’s football, following her successful academy career.
Expressing her excitement, Apuusi-Tchassem said, “I’m ready for a new challenge and can’t wait to meet the team and get started.” Acknowledging the increased physicality of senior women’s football, she added, “I know it’ll be tough, but I’m excited for the challenge ahead.”
READ MORE: Airport Sale ‘A Boon for Aviation,’ Says YouTube Pilot Who Overcame Fear at Staverton
READ MORE: Neighbour Chases Off Rogue Traders Pretending to Repair Roof in Gloucestershire
Cheltenham Town Women enjoyed a strong 2024/25 season, reaching the finals of the FAWNL Plate and Gloucestershire FA County Cup, while finishing eighth in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division.
Looking ahead, the optimistic forward believes in the team’s potential: “I think we can win the league and make a deep run in the FA Cup. The squad has a lot of capability, and I’m ready to contribute.”
Apuusi-Tchassem joins Charlotte Haynes, former Swansea City goalkeeper, as the second new signing this summer. The Robins are currently in pre-season preparation, following a 6-3 victory over Cardiff City in their opening friendly match.
The team will discover their fixture list for the 2025/26 campaign on Tuesday, July 15, as they build towards the new season.