By Isabelle Campbell 26/09/2024
Above: Kyra Cooney-Cross. Photo: Mariella Prew.
Kyra Cooney-Cross was brought in as a key part of Arsenal’s plan for the future, but that time might have already arrived.
A year on from her debut for the Gunners, Kyra Cooney-Cross has solidified her place in the star-studded squad. Though initially getting limited playing time, the young midfielder stayed persistent and now fans and professionals alike can say without a doubt, her patience has paid off.
Though just 22, Cooney-Cross holds herself on the pitch with a level of confidence far beyond her years and game by game fans have seen it only grow stronger as she finds herself within the club. This growing confidence was apparent in her performances during the teams pre-season matches including, of course, her debut goal in the 3-0 victory over Southampton
Consistently making the starting lineup for a club as talent-rich as Arsenal is no small feat and yet in just a short time Cooney-Cross has established herself as an indispensable element in Jonas Eidevall’s squad.
Cooney-Cross signed for Arsenal in 2023 following a standout World Cup campaign with the Australian national team, ‘The Matildas’. She continued to impress upon her arrival in North London, making a significant impact on Arsenal’s already dynamic midfield. Quick on her feet and with the ability to break through defensive lines with her precise passing, the young aussie continues to prove herself as a huge part of Eidevall’s side.
Heading into her second season, Cooney-Cross is consistently showcasing the experience gained from a year of playing against top-tier opposition and training alongside high calibre players. The young Gunner herself made mention of this in a recent interview stating, “Even if I’m not playing, I’m training with world-class players every day”.
Arsenal has high hopes for the 2024-2025 season, both domestically and within Europe. Having fallen short in the WSL title race last season, the Gunners are set on restoring their place at the top of the table. Cooney-Cross will certainly play a major role in this endeavour, with her ability to link defence and attack with ease she will be a key component of Eidevall’s approach.
Still only in the early stages of her footballing career, Cooney-Cross’ trajectory thus far points towards greatness.This second season with Arsenal will be crucial in her development, and if her performances we’ve witnessed already this season are any indication of what’s to come, she is well on track to become one of the most formidable midfielders in the WSL and a cornerstone for both club and country.
Years before her move to North London, Kyra Cooney-Cross had already made a name for herself in Australian football. Her performances for Melbourne Victory, most noteworthy of which, a dramatic last-minute goal in the 2021 A-League Women’s Grand Final, drew significant attention from scouts across Europe. This iconic moment, a direct from the corner goal that secured her team the title, was a clear indication of her capabilities and precision in big game moments.
One of Cooney-Cross’s most notable strengths is her ability to control the tempo of a game. Whether positioned in a double pivot or as part of a midfield trio, she exhibits extraordinary vision and passing range. Her knack for executing long, cross-field passes and precise through balls has added dimension to the club’s forward play.
Another key aspect of the midfielder’s game is her ability to remain composed under pressure. In the WSL, where midfield battles are often highly competitive, Cooney-Cross showcases a remarkable skill for maintaining possession and making smart decisions even when faced with challenging opposition.
Kyra Cooney-Cross was brought in as a key part of Arsenal’s plan for the future, but what if the ‘future’ was just one season away? With her development still in full swing and already showing such promise on the pitch, Cooney-Cross represents both a promising present and an even brighter future. As she continues to mature and hone her game, the Australian is poised to play a crucial role in the Gunners quest for silverware.
Follow Impetus on social media –
Twitter (X): @impetusfootball TikTok: @impetusfootball
Instagram: @impetusfootball
impetusfootball.org 