Exeter City Women were delighted to announce the signing of Giota Papaioannou from Plymouth Argyle, subject to FA registration!

The commanding central defender arrives in Devon's capital after eight seasons with the Pilgrims, where she was the club's captain.

Born and raised in Greece, Giota supported Panathinaikos growing up and becomes the first Greek player to represent either of the Grecian’s first team squads.

Moving to the UK initially for university, Giota joined Argyle in 2018. During her time with the club, she represented Greece at youth level and has also been named in senior international squads during UEFA Women’s European Championship qualifying campaigns.

Giota will wear the number 22 shirt for the 2026/27 season, and if you would like to sponsor our new recruit. 

Giota made a scoring debut in a pre-season friendly at Keynsham on the 12th July 2026, with a powerful header at the back post. And her league debut coming on as a 2nd half substitute against Lewes on the 30th August 2026. 

Playing Record