Arsenal’s back-line has taken one other hit as pivotal centre-back Rafaelle Souza is about to depart the WSL membership this summer time.
The 31-year-old made a splash within the WSL, becoming a member of the Gunners in January 2022 after a stint in China with Changchun Zhuoyue.
The Brazil captain is linked to a transfer to the NWSL, possible making the change and heading to Orlando Delight after making 21 appearances for Arsenal within the WSL. She additionally performed a significant function on this season’s journey to the Champions League semi-finals.
It’s understood that the transfer was not prompted by being sad at Arsenal. However Rafaelle will play her closing recreation for the Gunners on Saturday at house towards Aston Villa earlier than bidding farewell.
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The centre of Arsenal’s defence is about to look very completely different in the beginning of subsequent season. Jonas Eidevall’s most popular pairing in 2022/23 has been Rafaelle alongside Leah Williamson, however with the Brazilian heading elsewhere and the Lionesses skipper set to overlook a significant chunk of 2023/24 whereas recovering from an ACL damage, it is going to be a brand new partnership.
The adjustments may see Lotte Wubben-Moy step into a number one function. Arsenal additionally nonetheless have Anna Patten out there to them, with the 24-year-old maturing into a formidable WSL defender throughout back-to-back loans at Aston Villa since January 2022.
