Cardiff City have made their first move in the Genero Adran Premier summer window ahead of 2026/27, as former Bluebird Ella Hilliard returns to the capital, signing from FA Women’s National League side Bristol Rovers.
Formerly a Cymru U19 international, the 22-year-old made her senior debut for Cardiff City at 15 years old in the Welsh Premier Women’s League. A move to Bristol City would follow, and after spells at Derby County, Peterborough United, Gwalia United and Bristol Rovers, Hilliard is back in the capital.
Initially from the Republic of Ireland, having played for Skerries Town in her youth before her Cardiff chapter, the central defender becomes Noah Bushby’s first signing since becoming Cardiff City boss.
Hilliard told Cardiff City TV: “It feels amazing to be back. It’s been seven years since I’ve been here and I had a great experience at the Club back when I was 15. I love the Club so I’m so happy to be back.
“After Noah reached out to me, from when I was here the first time, Noah was here and we got on really well. I know he’s such a lovely person but such a good coach as well. I just knew from the conversation that we had that this would be a good really place for me right now. I’m just really excited to get going.
“I’m someone who obviously gives 100% every time. I’m really happy to be here and I’m someone who absolutely loves the Club. I’ll always give my all in every game I play.”
Analysis | A very good start to what Noah Bushby’s squad could look like come 6th September
Analysis by Harry Ware
Positive news for Cardiff City fans, something which hasn’t been a regular occurrence so far this summer, but there is a lot of time left until the season starts. This is a very good start to what Noah Bushby’s squad could look like come 6th September, and is the sort of lift Bluebirds fans need after key player exits so far this window.
With Megan Bowen and Nieve Rowbottom both departing, and with the news of contract renewals still to be seen, central defence is an area where Cardiff needed to strengthen. The returning Ella Hilliard brings a lot of quality, having been a regular at every club she’s been at since departing Bristol City.
A commanding defender with incredible defensive ability and strength, Hilliard also brings technical ability, which is a key asset in a Cardiff side who want to dominate matches.
As mentioned with other signings this window though, the right characters are vital, particularly in a rebuild and a new era, both of which seem to be the case for The Bluebirds.
Cardiff City Manager Noah Bushby said on Hilliard signing: “We’re very excited to welcome Ella back to the Club. First and foremost, she’s a talented defender who will add real strength to our backline. She is also a great character to have around the group given all the experience that she has gained so early in her career, both at club and international level.
“During my time at the Club, we have seen so many players sign for Cardiff City and develop their game even further. Ella will be a great asset to our squad and I’m excited to see her game progress. Her performance levels are something that our fanbase can be excited to see.”
Wrexham and TNS have made some statement signings so far, with Swansea City sealing contract renewals to most of their squad early on. However, Cardiff City shouldn’t be completely ruled out just yet in what is set to be another exciting Genero Adran Premier title race.
If the Bluebirds can get contract renewals over the line for key players, and transfers continue at a similar quality of Ella Hilliard, they’ll be a strong outfit in 2026/27, but there’s no doubt there is a lot to do to ensure City compete.
