EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal Women scouts urged to level up their game and sign prospective younsgters

This season, Arsenal’s left wing is a position of interest, and there is a growing debate regarding the starting lineup: Foord or Caldentey. In recent seasons, Caitlin Foord, the Matildas’ star, has been the first choice; however, this may be subject to change. In my opinion, Foord appears to have lost her touch while playing the position in recent months, a phenomenon that is comparable to Gabriel Martinelli’s diminished intensity in front of goal.

There are those who believe that the Australian winger has achieved the pinnacle of her career. They contend that it is absurd to anticipate that a 29-year-old player will continue to develop. Caldentey, 28, has joined to exert pressure on her as they vie for the starting position.

Caldentey has been revolutionary in her attacking from the left flank for Barcelona Femeni and world champions Spain, despite her versatility. The underlying assumption is that she will establish a solid foundation at the Emirates Stadium.

Nevertheless, there is an issue with the Arsenal left wing that should result in Gio Queiroz’s departure to Atletico Madrid being lamentable. Arsenal’s left-wing options are unreliable in the long term due to their age. Foord’s enthusiasm is waning, and it is uncertain how long Caldentey will be able to preserve her exceptional standards. Lina Hurtig is also a viable alternative; however, she is 28 years old and is frequently sidelined by injuries, which resulted in her absence during the previous season.

It is not particularly challenging to negotiate the women’s transfer market; however, Arsenal should prioritise the establishment of a strong foundation for the left-wing position with exceptional young players, particularly in light of Gio’s departure, who is currently scoring hat-tricks for fun at his new club, Atletico Madrid.

The Arsenal midfield appears to be established for the future, with Rosa Kafaji, Kathryn Kuhl, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Victoria Pelova all under the age of 21. However, the left flank is lacking in this regard. To safeguard the team’s future, Arsenal scouts should pull up their socks and sign some of the youngest players, commencing with left wingers..