Arsenal Women have reinforced their leadership structure by securing new contracts for Leah Williamson and Steph Catley, while also confirming the departures of goalkeepers Manuela Zinsberger and Naomi Williams.
Williamson’s extension is viewed as a cornerstone decision. As both club captain and defensive organiser, she plays a critical role in build-up play, positional discipline and team culture. She has repeatedly spoken about her connection to Arsenal and her desire to lead the club back to sustained domestic and European success.
Steph Catley has also committed her future to Arsenal. Since joining Melbourne City in 2020, she has made over 120 appearances and become one of the squad’s most tactically versatile players, operating at left-back and centre-back depending on match demands.
Catley has won the UEFA Women’s Champions League and two League Cups with Arsenal and has earned more than 120 caps for Australia. After signing her extension, she said there was “nowhere else I’d rather be,” describing Arsenal as home.
In contrast, Arsenal will lose two goalkeepers this summer. Manuela Zinsberger departs after six years and more than 140 appearances, during which she recorded 51 clean sheets and played a significant role in Arsenal’s return to domestic and European contention.
Naomi Williams will also leave after eight years at the club, having progressed through the academy into the senior setup without making a competitive appearance. Head coach Renée Slegers praised Williams for her professionalism and composure when addressing teammates about her departure.
Arsenal are also aware of external interest in Beth Mead and Katie McCabe, both of whom have contracts expiring this summer. It is rumoured that Manchester City is interested in both of them. Mead's partner, Vivianne Miedema, is already at City and if City loses Bunny Shaw to possibly Chelsea, they will need to replace her somehow. While Chelsea is also interested in McCabe, this would not go down well with the fans.
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