Arsenal officially announced the signing of U.S International Emily Fox, the defender signing to the club from NWSL side, North Carolina Courage. The move to England’s capital marks the first time that the 25 year-old will compete outside of the United States, a challenge that will be sure to provide the fireworks.

Fox has picked up 39 appearances for her nation since her debut in 2018, already proving herself to be a remarkable talent for the USWNT. Fox’s arrival also initiates a college reunion between two other Arsenal stars in that of Lotte Wubben-Moy and Alessia Russo, the pair having played with Fox during their time at the University of North Carolina.

Not only has the defender proved herself to be an exciting prospect in the full-back position, the strengthening of Arsenal’s last-line may be imperative as the title race reaches maximum temperature. The departure of Noelle Maritz to Barclays Women’s Super League counterparts, Aston Villa, creates a large positional void for Jonas Eidevall in the right-back role. Though it could be safe to derive that Maritz’s departure arrived as a significant result of Emily Fox’s arrival in North London, Eidevall having recently opted to play Katie McCabe in the right full-back position.

With the return of Leah Williamson looming on the horizon, and the stellar recent form of Lotte Wubben-Moy, Fox’s arrival is an exciting spectacle for Arsenal’s last line. The 25 year-old’s arrival in North London allows McCabe to return to her preferred left side, additionally providing the opportunity of squad management and rotation through the likes of Steph Catley.

All in all, the Gunners welcome a bright new face to their armoury. Currently trailing behind the league leaders in Chelsea by three points on the league table, the new year has only just began to heat up for The Arsenal.