Arsenal Women Embrace New Squad Numbers for 2026/27 Season
Arsenal’s women’s side have quietly underlined their ambitions for 2026/27 with a symbolic but telling shift: four key players will walk out next season wearing new numbers on their backs.
It’s not just admin. Shirt numbers carry weight in elite dressing rooms. And these changes say plenty.
- Daphne van Domselaar takes No 1
- Caitlin Foord moves to No 9
- Olivia Smith switches to No 11
- Michelle Agyemang adopts No 17
Van Domselaar handed the gloves’ crown
Daphne van Domselaar stepping into the No 1 shirt is a statement. That number belongs to the goalkeeper expected to command the box, the back line and, often, the season. Arsenal are making it clear who they see as the figure between the posts as the new campaign begins.
Foord embraces the classic striker’s badge
Caitlin Foord’s move to No 9 feels like a natural elevation. The nine is football’s most traditional goalscorer’s badge, the number that drags defenders deep and keeps them awake at night. Foord has long been central to Arsenal’s attacking thrust; now her shirt reflects that responsibility.
Smith and Agyemang step into sharper focus
Olivia Smith’s switch to No 11 places her in the lineage of wide forwards and creative threats. It’s a winger’s number, a playmaker’s number, one that hints at a season where she’s expected to stretch games and unlock packed defences.
Michelle Agyemang’s choice of 17 is subtler, but no less important. It carries the feel of a young player growing into a bigger role, ready to turn promising cameos into meaningful minutes in a side chasing silverware.
Club moves to protect its supporters
The club has also moved decisively to look after supporters who backed these players early.
Fans who have already bought 2026/27 jerseys with the old numbers through Arsenal Direct can request a free refund. No hidden catches, no extra fees.
Those who picked up their shirts at the Armoury or Highbury stores are covered too. Bring the jersey back with proof of purchase and it can be exchanged free of charge for one bearing the new number.
Four numbers change. Expectations rise. The question now is simple: how far can this reshaped core drive Arsenal in 2026/27?
