Isabelle Campbell 8/11/24
Above: Arsenal prodigy Vivienne Lia. Photo: Arsenal
Although their senior squad is packed with talent, it is only the tip of the iceberg at Arsenal.
As Arsenal Women are well underway in both their WSL and Champions League endeavours, the club’s dedication to developing emerging young talents is more apparent than ever.
While established squad members provide the framework of the team, it’s often the youthful spirit and desire to prove that can trigger a needed change in gameplay. This season, a handful of Arsenal’s youngest players are not only eyeing future possibilities; they are set to make their mark on the present.
Let’s break down a few of these young players’ potential and see how they’re ready to contribute to Arsenal Women’s success this season; from the attacking threat of Freya Godfrey and Vivienne Lia, game control of Laila Harbert and composed defending of Katie Reid, these young talents are stepping up into key roles this season.
Katie Reid
18-year-old centre-back Katie Reid climbed her way up through the academy and into the first team where she recently signed her first professional contract. The defender made her first team debut in the Gunners 5-0 WSL victory over Bristol City in April this year. Known for her strong defensive skills and ball distribution, Reid has quickly established herself as a valuable asset to the squad. As a centre-back, her composure under pressure and quick decision-making abilities are all the makings of a world-class defender.
Training and playing alongside fellow Arsenal Academy graduates and centre-backs Leah Williamson and Lotte Wubben-Moy grant Reid invaluable mentorship from two of the top players in her position. Drawing from Williamson’s leadership and Wubben-Moy’s tactical insight, Reid is set to elevate her capabilities and upgrade her game to potentially become a future foundation of Arsenal’s defensive line.
Reid’s recent signing illustrates the club’s trust in her potential, as she continues to hone and build upon her game, Katie Reid has the potential to be a key player for Arsenal Women, helping them to achieve this season and hopefully for many more to come.
Freya Godfrey
Looking to Arsenal’s forward line, Freya Godfrey signed her first professional contract with Arsenal in June of last year before being loaned out to Charlton Athletic the following month. Having been in the Arsenal Academy since the age of 12, Godfrey is an exciting young talent for the club, who showcases her versatility and attacking prowess at every opportunity.
Though only 19 years old, she has already gained significant experience through loan spells, including a notable stint at Ipswich Town under dual registration with Arsenal. Though she played primarily as a striker at Ipswich, Godfrey can play comfortably across the front line, offering Arsenal depth and flexibility in their attacking options.
Godfrey’s ability to adapt to jump into different roles, whether on the wing or as a central striker, allows for tactical adaptability while helping to manage squad rotation during the season. With the team participating in multiple competitions this season, squad rotation will be key.
Godfrey’s growth this season will be key, and if she can tap into her full potential in such a high-profile setting, she could quite easily establish herself as a key component for the North London club both now and in the future. Her skills on the ball, agility, and vision make for a potent attacking threat, whether creating chances for teammates or getting on the scoresheet herself.
Recently nominated for the Golden Girl Award, Freya Godfrey is positioned to be a game-changing player for the Gunners; her flair, fluidity, and forward-thinking plays are sure to pique the interest of fans and leave them wanting to see more of what she can bring to the table.
Vivienne Lia
Viv Lia made her senior team debut in the last fifteen minutes of the Conti Cup quarter-final victory over London City Lionesses at just 17. Lia is among Arsenal Women’s brightest young prospects, with a remarkable technical skillset and maturity beyond her young age. Self-described as a pacy winger, her composure under pressure and ability to control the tempo of a game stand out; even when surrounded by more experienced players Lia can hold her own without issue. As Arsenal looks to build upon their already all-star midfield, Lia’s flair makes for an exciting option to integrate into the first team over time.
Lia could be pivotal in helping Arsenal navigate the demands of their busy calendar this season. With injuries always being a concern and rotation a key factor in maintaining form across competitions, Lia’s presence could provide some moments of rest and relief to more senior midfielders whilst also giving her the opportunity to gain hugely valuable minutes.
Her ability to read gameplay and her tactical intelligence could make her a great option coming off the bench or potentially even as a starter. Lia’s development will be one for fans and competitors alike to watch, as she holds the potential to become a key component of Arsenal’s midfield for years to come.
Her performances in both training sessions and games will be closely watched, not just by the coaching staff but also by fans eager to see her evolution. The future is undeniably bright for this young player, and her journey promises to be thrilling to follow.
Laila Harbert
Laila Harbert has been with Arsenal since the age of nine, and now at just 17, she’s one of the club’s brightest young prospects. Outside of her club achievements, Harbert has also made a name for herself on the international stage, being named captain of the England U17 Lionesses. This leadership role highlights her maturity and ability to inspire those around her, both on and off the pitch.
A defensive midfielder, Harbert thrives under pressure, most notably when building up from the back. She’s more than comfortable taking on duals and finding a way through tight spaces, a skill she honed during her time training with the boys at Hale End. For three seasons, Harbert was one of just two girls training in the boys’ setup, an experience she says has helped to shape her as a player, noting how the quicker pace and physicality level helped to sharpen her skills.
Her development through Arsenal’s Academy is evident in her personal physicality and tactical intelligence. Arsenal’s packed schedule this season could offer her the opportunity to step up and give her the chance to relieve senior players and gain valuable WSL minutes. Having already proven herself for country, this season could well be her time to do the same for club.
Out on loan
In addition to Arsenal’s core squad, another three of the club’s young players are currently building upon their skills and gaining experience out on loan in the Women’s Championship this season. Centre-back Teyah Goldie is at Watford, focusing on rebuilding her defensive strength following her recovery from an ACL injury. Whilst forward Michelle Agyemang is developing her already immense attacking prowess at Brighton . Maddy Earl has joined Bristol City Women on a dual registration for the first half of the 2024-25 season. These loan spells are crucial for their growth, giving them the chance for regular game time in competitive environments before returning to Arsenal.
Follow Impetus on social media –
Twitter (X): @impetusfootball TikTok: @impetusfootball
Instagram: @impetusfootball : @impetusfootball
impetusfootball.org 