Arsenal fans in Australia could get a rare treat: Seeing their Women’s team in action, with Matildas stars playing close to home.

Arsenal’s women’s team could be heading to Australia! Sources indicate advanced discussions to bring the Gunners down under for a post-season match against an A-League Women’s All-Stars team. This exciting potential double-header, which will also feature Tottenham Hotspur men’s team at the MCG in May, would showcase Matildas stars Steph Catley, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Caitlin Foord against top Australian talent.

The deal reportedly depends on the Matildas trio’s involvement, essential to Arsenal’s current FA Women’s Super League title campaign. If the agreement goes through, the match would provide Australian fans a chance to see these Gunners stars playing close to home.

Visit Victoria secures the deal

While Destination NSW put in strong bids, ultimately Visit Victoria won out in bringing Arsenal to Australia.

Final details are still being worked out, including whether the match happens on the same night as Tottenham Hotspur’s men’s game against the A-League Men’s All-Stars (May 22) or a separate date, a vital discussion as travel considerations factor into player wellbeing. “In terms of player wellbeing, in terms of how many days can they prepare to play a game and then travel back again?” noted Matildas Coach Tony Gustavsson in recent comments.

Further implications & excitement

Arsenal’s WSL season ends May 18th. In this scenario, they’d fly immediately to Melbourne, with Matildas players transitioning swiftly into a pre-Olympics camp (assuming Australia qualifies).

Beyond the Aussies, Arsenal boasts global stars like England’s Leah Williamson and Dutch striker Vivianne Miedema. With high-profile names potentially on display, fans are likely to fill the MCG regardless of its non-ideal shape for football.