Arsenal have set the football world abuzz by acquiring Matildas star Kyra Cooney-Cross for a record fee.
Joining fellow Aussies in England, she’s poised to make a significant impact in her new home at Emirates Stadium.
A high-value signing
Arsenal have made a clear statement of intent with the signing of Matildas midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross.
The 21-year-old’s transfer fee alone emphasises the value Arsenal see in her talents, with significant resources committed to bring her from Swedish side Hammarby IF.
The rising Aussie star
Cooney-Cross, who was pivotal in Australia’s journey to the World Cup semi-finals, has now linked up with fellow international teammates Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley in north London.
Reflecting on her move, she commented, “I’m so excited to join this club. Arsenal just felt right as soon as I heard about the interest. I can’t wait to play at the Emirates Stadium and help us achieve something big together.”
Her excitement is matched by that of the club. Arsenal head coach, Jonas Eidevall, expressed his delight, stating, “Kyra is one of the best young players in world football.
“Her passing ability and explosiveness allow her to affect games in a way you rarely see from such a young player. We firmly believe she will be an excellent addition to our midfield, now and in the future.”
Putting the fee in perspective
The signing of Cooney-Cross is not just significant for Arsenal, but for women’s football globally. To provide context, while the transfer fees in men’s football have skyrocketed, those in women’s football have traditionally been much lower.
The current most expensive player is Keira Walsh, transferring from Manchester City to Barcelona at a cost of €470k.
However, Cooney-Cross’s transfer fee is making headlines.
A recent report by Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet reveals that the Australian midfielder’s transfer fee ranks her among the ‘world’s most expensive’ players.
Their report suggests a fee just over SEK 3.8m, which converts to around €320k, surpassing the fee for Lindsey Horan‘s move to Lyon and edging close to the fees for Walsh and Jill Roord.
With Arsenal Women paying an upfront fee of €250k and an additional €100k on the table for Hammarby IF, this investment could approach €350k, depending on the fulfilment of certain conditions.
A growing Australian presence in England
Cooney-Cross’s move to Arsenal further bolsters the list of Australians making their mark in English football.
Notably, Matildas superstar Sam Kerr represents Chelsea, while players like goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold and outfield stars Mary Fowler and Alanna Kennedy play for West Ham and Manchester City respectively.
Looking to the future
This investment by Arsenal underscores their commitment to securing top talent and their belief in Cooney-Cross’s potential.
With significant resources now invested, all eyes will be on the young Australian as she takes the pitch at Emirates Stadium.
The expectation is high, but if her past performances are anything to go by, Arsenal’s investment might just prove to be a masterstroke.