Matty James, born Matthew Lee James on July 22, 1991, in Bacup, Lancashire, began his football journey in Manchester United’s prestigious academy. He joined the under-18 squad at 14, honing his skills in both midfield and defense, showing early versatility that would become a defining part of his career.
Contents
- Biography of Matty James
- Manchester United and Loan to Preston North End
- Transfer to Leicester City
- Current Role at Wrexham
- Personal Life
- Unknown Facts about Matty James
- Early Start with Manchester United
- Versatile Midfielder and Defender
- Loan to Preston North End
- Leicester City Career and Promotion
- Premier League Champion Season Absence
- Multiple Loan Spells Post-Injury
- Wrexham Signing in 2024
- International Youth Captain for England
- Family Ties in Football
- Father’s Influence and Football Background
- Educational Background
- Philanthropy in Healthcare
- Injury Struggles
- Jersey Number
- Goal-Scoring Debut for Leicester
- Disciplinary Challenges
- No Known Tattoos
- Net Worth Estimation
- Strong Work Ethic
- Strong Connection with Wrexham Fans
Biography of Matty James
Matty James Wiki and Biography | Â |
Real Name | Matthew Lee James |
Nickname | Matty James |
Profession | Footballer |
Age | 33 Years (2024) |
Date of Birth | 22 July 1991 |
Birthplace | Bacup, England |
Nationality | English |
Gender | Male |
Height in Inches | 5 feet 11 inches |
Weight in KG | 73 kg |
Manchester United and Loan to Preston North End
After signing a professional contract with Manchester United in 2009, James earned a spot on the bench for the senior team, yet didn’t make an appearance. Seeking more playing time, he joined Preston North End on loan in 2010, scoring a debut goal and rejoining the team on a season-long loan.
Transfer to Leicester City
In 2012, James transferred to Leicester City, where he experienced highs and lows. Notably, he played an essential role in the team’s Championship win and subsequent promotion to the Premier League, though injuries caused him to miss Leicester’s 2015–16 Premier League-winning season.
Affairs, Girlfriends, and Marital Status | Â |
Marital Status | Married |
Wife / Spouse | Leah Richards |
Current Role at Wrexham
In October 2024, James joined League One club Wrexham on a short-term contract, continuing his professional journey with a focus on contributing experience and versatility.
Personal Life
James’s family has a rich football background; his brother Reece James plays for Sheffield Wednesday, while their father, Linton James, was a non-league player. Known for his philanthropy, Matty donated therapeutic equipment to Fairfield General Hospital, where his mother works as a nurse.
Family and Relatives | Â |
Father | Linton James |
Mother | Maxine |
Brother | Reece James |
Unknown Facts about Matty James
Early Start with Manchester United
James joined Manchester United’s youth ranks at 14, progressing to their under-18 team by 2005.
Versatile Midfielder and Defender
Primarily a midfielder, James also adapts well in defensive roles when required, showcasing his versatility.
Loan to Preston North End
In 2010, he followed teammate Danny Welbeck by joining Preston North End on loan, scoring on his debut.
Leicester City Career and Promotion
James transferred to Leicester City in 2012, playing a crucial role in their 2014 promotion to the Premier League.
Premier League Champion Season Absence
A severe ligament injury in May 2015 sidelined James for the entire 2015-16 season, missing Leicester’s title victory.
Multiple Loan Spells Post-Injury
To regain match fitness, James went on loan to Barnsley and later Coventry City, scoring a vital goal for Coventry in 2021.
Wrexham Signing in 2024
After leaving Bristol City in 2023, he joined Wrexham on a short-term deal, marking his League One comeback.
International Youth Captain for England
Matty captained England’s U-19 squad at the 2009 UEFA European Championship, a testament to his leadership skills.
Family Ties in Football
His brother, Reece James, also a professional footballer, currently plays for Sheffield Wednesday in the EFL Championship.
Father’s Influence and Football Background
His father, Linton James, was a non-league footballer and assistant manager, inspiring Matty’s early career.
Educational Background
James attended Fearns Community Sports College, balancing academics and rigorous football training.
Philanthropy in Healthcare
In 2020, he donated therapy chairs worth £2,000 to Fairfield General Hospital, supporting the facility where his mother works as a nurse.
Injury Struggles
Persistent injuries have impacted his career, with two significant knee injuries affecting his playing time at Leicester.
Jersey Number
Throughout his career, James has often worn the number 6 jersey, symbolizing his solid presence in midfield.
Goal-Scoring Debut for Leicester
He scored his first Leicester goal in a League Cup match, marking his arrival as a vital squad member.
Disciplinary Challenges
James received two red cards in his career, one notably against Aston Villa, sparking debate over player conduct.
No Known Tattoos
Unlike many players, Matty James has no visible tattoos, focusing on simplicity over body art.
Net Worth Estimation
His net worth is estimated to be around $1-2 million, accumulated through his club contracts and endorsements.
Strong Work Ethic
Known for his resilience, Matty James’s career reflects his commitment to overcoming injuries and staying competitive.
Strong Connection with Wrexham Fans
Though new to the club, James has already garnered respect from fans for his commitment and experience.
Matty James’s journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of family and philanthropy. His continued dedication to football highlights his determination to succeed against all odds.
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