- Rafaelle Souza, Arsenal’s key defender, is to exit the club on a free transfer, possibly heading to Orlando in the US-League.
- Souza’s departure, coupled with Leah Williamson’s ongoing injury, leaves Arsenal with three fit centre-backs, hinting at potential new signings in the summer transfer window.
- Arsenal faces significant decisions around the existing players and new signings in response to Souza’s departure and the overall team’s balance.
In a surprising turn of events, Rafaelle Souza, the Brazilian centre-back for Arsenal, is set to leave the club on a free transfer as her contract expires at the end of this season.
Rafaelle, who joined Arsenal in January 2022, has played a crucial role during her tenure, making 35 appearances, and scoring four noteworthy goals, including one against Tottenham Hotspur in front of a record Barclays Women’s Super League crowd at the Emirates Stadium.
With this sudden departure, Arsenal are left with three fit centre-backs: Lotte Wubben-Moy, Jennifer Beattie, whose contract is also due to end this month, and Teyah Goldie, who is still in her teens.
Leah Williamson, recovering from an ACL injury, remains a way off from returning to the pitch, leaving a visible void in Arsenal’s defence.
This shift indicates a busy summer transfer window for Arsenal, set to be open from 26 June to 14 September.
There’s considerable anticipation that the club might sign four or five new players to bolster the squad. The hope is that this departure has been anticipated and a top player identified for signing. The team could benefit from a competent, left-footed centre-back to maintain the squad balance.
Speculation around the team’s strategy is ripe, with one suggesting a shift of Steph Catley to centre-back, akin to Oleksandr Zinchenko’s role in the men’s team.
This would then necessitate recruiting a tactically-strong left-back. Another alternative involves extending Jennifer Beattie’s contract, considering her recent strong performances, especially when using a back three formation or in situations requiring substantial aerial prowess.
A significant consideration surrounds Teyah Goldie’s development. Given her lengthy layoff due to an ACL injury, she needs substantial game time. However, being the third or fourth choice centre-back could limit her playing time unless she’s being groomed as an understudy to Lia