Ireland women’s football manager Vera Pauw revealed that Arsenal made the decision to reject a potential transfer offer from Chelsea for Katie McCabe.
The Irish international had reportedly been the subject of a £250,000 bid from the Blues, but Arsenal decided to keep their player, turning down Chelsea’s offer.
Pauw spoke about the situation, saying: “She understands the decision of Arsenal. She had not made a decision. It was completely beyond herself; it was something happening around her, not with her.”
McCabe has not publicly commented on the situation.
Arsenal Women’s team mostly enjoyed a successful international break, with Leah Williamson leading England to victory in the Arnold Clark Cup, scoring two goals in the final game against Belgium as they won 6-1.
Lotte Wubben-Moy also played for England in their win against Italy.
Meanwhile, Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord helped Australia win the Cup of Nations, with Catley playing in all three games and Foord scoring against Spain and Jamaica.
Sabrina D’Angelo, Arsenal’s Canadian goalkeeper, suffered an injury during the SheBelieves Cup, while Lia Walti captained Switzerland to two draws against Poland.
Frida Maanum played for Norway in the Tournoi de France, while McCabe’s Republic of Ireland drew with China.
Arsenal face Chelsea in the 5th round of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup on Sunday with a 2pm kick-off.