Jenna Nighswonger, the 24-year-old United States international, commenced her first training session with Arsenal at the Sobha Realty Training Centre today, marking a significant milestone in her professional career. Having joined the club from Gotham FC, Nighswonger is eager to contribute to Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware.
In her initial interview with Arsenal, Nighswonger expressed her enthusiasm about joining the club, stating, “I feel so excited. This club has so much history, and I’m excited to join it and hopefully help the team win more trophies.” She emphasized her commitment to personal and professional growth, adding, “I want to grow and get better as a player and as a person. I’m just really excited to play in front of the supporters, and I promise to give my all to the club.” ([arsenal.com](https://www.arsenal.com/news/nighswonger-ive-come-here-win-trophies?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Nighswonger’s versatility is a notable asset; although primarily a left-back, she began her career as an attacking midfielder. She remarked on her adaptability, saying, “It was a bit shocking when it first happened. But then I started to play and I grew more comfortable and I grew to love the role, love the position, so I’ve really just leaned in and embraced and tried to get better at that.” She further highlighted the importance of versatility in modern football, stating, “I think versatility at this level is just so important, especially as the game is growing and tactics are changing.” ([arsenal.com](https://www.arsenal.com/news/nighswonger-ive-come-here-win-trophies?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Nighswonger began her collegiate career with the Florida State Seminoles, where she made a significant impact by scoring 19 goals and providing 34 assists in 86 appearances, contributing to the team’s 2021 National Championship victory. She was drafted by Gotham FC in January 2023 and quickly became a key player, making 46 appearances and scoring four goals. Her outstanding performance earned her the 2023 NWSL Rookie of the Year award. Internationally, Nighswonger has earned 18 caps for the United States Women’s National Team, scoring two goals. She was part of the squad that secured the Concacaf W Gold Cup in March 2024 and won gold at the Paris Olympics in the summer of 2024. ([arsenal.com](https://www.arsenal.com/news/jenna-nighswonger-signs?utm_proposition=womens&utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Arsenal’s Head Coach, RenΓ©e Slegers, praised Nighswonger’s maturity and presence on the field, stating, “Jenna has had a great trajectory in the game and weβre delighted to bring her to Arsenal. Despite being only 24, she plays with great maturity and presence and knows what it takes to compete to win on the biggest stages at both domestic and national team level.” ([arsenal.com](https://www.arsenal.com/news/jenna-nighswonger-signs?utm_proposition=womens&utm_source=chatgpt.com))
As Nighswonger embarks on this new chapter with Arsenal, her blend of experience and versatility is expected to be a valuable addition to the team’s defensive lineup. Her commitment to growth and success aligns with Arsenal’s ambitions, and supporters are eager to see her contributions on the pitch.
For a more in-depth look at Nighswonger’s journey and her aspirations with Arsenal, you can watch her first interview with the club:
[Welcome to The Arsenal, Jenna Nighswonger | First Interview](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGh5gjkgHyI&utm_source=chatgpt.com)
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