Charles' rise to NI's most expensive footballer
After he became Northern Ireland's most expensive player, BBC Sport NI looks at the rise of Shea Charles, from Manchester City's academy to Fulham's £30m man.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"Honestly, he is so calm, I actually haven't seen him get out of second gear yet and that is no joke - there is even more in him."
— Gerard Lyttle , Athlete
"I hope I can just push on from here and get more caps. It was a great feeling to make my debut."
— Shea Charles , Athlete
"With the likes of Rodri and Fernandinho, it is tough but enjoyable."
— Shea Charles , Athlete
Key People
Gerard Lyttle is a Northern Ireland youth coach who has praised Shea Charles's footballing abilities.
Ian Baraclough is a former manager of the Northern Ireland national football team who gave Shea Charles his first international call-up.
Michael O'Neill is a Northern Irish football manager known for his previous role with the national team.
Pep Guardiola is the current manager of Manchester City who announced his departure after a decade in charge.
Shea Charles is a Northern Irish football player known for his midfield play.
All Coverage
After he became Northern Ireland's most expensive player, BBC Sport NI looks at the rise of Shea Charles, from Manchester City's academy to Fulham's £30m man.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
NI keeper Burns on plans for life after football
Northern Ireland goalkeeper Jackie Burns is the number one for her country and has just signed for Burnley - but she is already thinking about her next steps.
August 19, 2026 at 07:10 AMFernandez will cost Man City more than £120m - Tuesday's gossip
Manchester City will need to pay more than £120m for Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has no shortage of suitors, Bruno Fernandes is offered a huge salary increase, plus more.
August 17, 2026 at 09:42 PMCeltic find value in 'special' Duran - but does ambition reach further still?
Now that the Champions League money may be nigh, we will get to see the scale of Celtic's ambition, asks Tom English?
August 19, 2026 at 11:34 PMIs Haaland worth the £15.5m price tag on FPL?
FPL expert Gianni Buttice weighs up whether Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is worth his £15.5m price tag on the game.
August 19, 2026 at 11:32 AMWhy Fernandez uncertainty has echoes of Isak saga
Enzo Fernandez's possible Manchester City move is following the pattern of Alexander Isak's transfer last summer - and creating headaches for Chelsea.
August 18, 2026 at 10:46 AMMan City's Reijnders set for £52m Saudi move
Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is set to leave following a year at the club after a £52m move was agreed with Saudi Pro-League side Al-Qadsiah.
August 13, 2026 at 10:12 PM