Jenna Nighswonger USWNT 2024Getty Images
Ryan TolmichJan 30, 2025USAArsenal WomenWSLJ. NighswongerNWSLNJ/NY Gotham FCWOMEN'S FOOTBALL

Jenna Nighswonger completes move to Arsenal to become latest USWNT star to leave NWSL for Europe

U.S. women's national team defender Jenna Nighswonger has signed with Arsenal, the WSL club confirmed on Thursday

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  • Nighswonger moves to Arsenal
  • Reported $100,000 fee
  • Becomes the latest USWNT star to head to Europe
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    WHAT HAPPENED?

    Arsenal confirmed on Wednesday that U.S. international Jenna Nighswonger has joined the club on a permanent transfer from Gotham FC, with the fee reportedly around $100,000. The left-back will join a USWNT teammate in London, as American right-back Emily Fox has been with the Gunners since January 2024.

    Nighswonger was the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NWSL Draft and immediately became a key player for Gotham, winning a league title and the NWSL Rookie of the Year award in her debut season. On the international level, Nighswonger has made 18 appearances for the USWNT and was a member of the gold medal squad at last summer's Olympic games.

    The Athletic reported Nighswonger's transfer fee.

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    WHAT WAS SAID

    “I’m so happy to be here,” said Nighswonger. “I’ve always wanted to play in England and joining such a historic football club is a dream come true. I want to win trophies with this club and help the team in any way possible. It’s an incredible feeling to be able to call myself an Arsenal player and I can’t wait to get started.”

    Added Arsenal boss Renee Slegers said: “Jenna has had a great trajectory in the game and we’re delighted to bring her to Arsenal. Despite being only 24, she plays with great maturity and presence and knows what it takes to compete to win on the biggest stages at both domestic and national team level. Jenna is an important addition to our squad and I’m looking forward to getting started together.”

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    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Nighswonger becomes the latest USWNT star to trade the NWSL for Europe. She's the second major NWSL departure this offseason, following Naomi Girma, who moved to Chelsea earlier this week.

    She joins Fox, Mia Fishel, and Catarina Macario among the Americans now playing in the WSL, while Lindsey Horan, Korbin Albert, Eva Gaetino, and Lily Yohannes are currently featuring for big European clubs as well.

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    WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

    Currently fourth in the WSL, Arsenal will be back in action this weekend when they face third-place Manchester City before facing the very same opponent four days later in the League Cup semifinal.