“It feels amazing,” said the Liverpool-born midfielder afterwards. “It takes the pressure off a little bit. Now I can get flowing into the season.
“The main thing for me was getting on to the pitch, making those connections with the girls and getting stuck in.
“I really enjoyed it out there and I am really happy with my debut.”
When Clinton switched Manchester clubs just hours before the transfer window closed, she stated on Instagram, external that she and United “weren’t on the same page”.
“She looked happy when she came on and looked like she enjoyed the game,” said Chelsea goalkeeper Becky Spencer, who played with Clinton at Spurs during her loan spell during the 2023-24 campaign.
Clinton undoubtedly adds further depth to a stacked squad of players at new City manager Andree Jeglertz’s disposal.
“I’m so happy for her because she has been working very good since she’s been with the team and deserved to get minutes,” said the Swede.
“Grace is a great player with the ball, she is working on finding the ball in different spaces and engaging the backline.
“But she is also working very hard to fit into the group and the team, and how we play – that will take some time for her.
“She wanted to be on the ball, she’s playing with a lot of confidence so I’m happy for her.”