Wolves officially announced that 17-year-old England U16 international Emilio Ballard-Matthews has signed his first professional contract with the club.

Ballard Matthews joined Wolves from Watford in the summer of 2023 and soon after joining the first team bench. As early as August 2023, at the age of 15, he was included in the English League Cup match against Blackpool, becoming one of Wolves' most watched youth training rookies in recent years.

Last season, Ballard-Matthews completed his promotion from U16 to U18, joining Richard Walker's U18 team. Despite missing three months due to injury, he still played 15 games and scored two goals, showing great potential and competitiveness.

Ballard Matthews couldn't hide his excitement about signing his professional contract: "It feels great to sign my first professional contract. I can't wait to start the new season. Last season I only showed my ability occasionally, but now I hope to really help the team through stable appearances and performances."

“Being called up to the England squad and being on the bench for the first team gives me a lot of motivation. “Although I had some injury challenges with the U18s last year, I just want to stay fit and do my best this season.”

Looking ahead to the new season, Ballard Matthews has clear goals: "I hope to score more goals and provide more assists, strive to be promoted to the U21 team, and have the opportunity to join the first team bench and participate in training more often. When I see the U18 players touring with the first team, I know that I am not far away from that stage."