Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the new Women's Super League campaign, with captain Leah Williamson ruled out for several weeks following a procedure on a knee injury sustained during the Euro 2025 final.
The 28-year-old defender reported back to the club with swelling on her right knee after leading England to a second consecutive European Championship triumph in Switzerland. Tests revealed surgery was required to clear out the joint, and Williamson has been seen on crutches at Arsenal's London Colney training ground. The club had feared a lengthy absence, but the setback is not as severe as initially anticipated.
Williamson ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in the same knee in April 2023, which caused her to miss the World Cup and sidelined her for nine months. However, the club has confirmed the two injuries are not directly linked.
Arsenal open their WSL season against London City Lionesses at the Emirates Stadium on 6 September. The club has been active in the transfer market, securing Chloe Kelly on a permanent deal, signing goalkeeper Anneke Borbe from Wolfsburg, and bringing in Liverpool duo Taylor Hinds and Olivia Smith. Smith joined for a world-record fee, becoming the first £1 million player in women's football.
