In today's Arsenal Women news, Rosa Kafaji has officially left Arsenal Women for London City Lionesses, while 18-year-old Danish goalkeeper Isabella “Isa” Damm has become Arsenal’s latest summer signing.
In this episode I reflect on Rosa’s departure, why I think her move was probably the right one for both player and club and why I believe some of the criticism aimed at Renée Slegers has been unfair.
The main focus, though, is Isa Damm.
Rather than simply repeating Arsenal’s announcement, I explore why developing goalkeepers is completely different to developing outfield players, why I think Arsenal have signed Isa for the footballer she could become rather than the goalkeeper she is today and what this transfer tells us about the long-term thinking behind Arsenal’s recruitment this summer.
I also talk about the disappointing reaction from some supporters on social media and why I believe Arsenal Women should continue to be the welcoming
community that has attracted so many people to the club.
Finally, I reflect on what Ona Batlle, Lisa Baum, Caitlin Foord and now Isa Damm have collectively taught me about Arsenal Women’s transfer strategy and the direction this football club is heading.