Leah Williamson: Arsenal defender signs new contract after Lioness' injury-hit season | OneFootball

England skipper has struggled with a knee problem that she suffered in Euro 2025 triumph

The England captain joined the Gunners as an eight-year-old in 2006 and the new deal means her time at the club will extend into a third decade.

She has made 282 first-team appearances for Arsenal and lifted nine major trophies.

Williamson's existing deal was set to run out at the end of the season but it was always likely that fresh terms would be agreed.

In footage accompanying the confirmation of the new deal, Williamson narrates a video that starts with her outside Highbury's East Stand and ends with her walking out onto the pitch at the Emirates Stadium.

Williamson said: "This story starts at home.

"It's made up of memories. For 20 years we have lived together. The bricks and walls might change but Arsenal never does.

"When I close my eyes I see them. Our story spilling out from the page and onto the pitch.

"This is a club steeped in history. To be part of it, to be shaped by it, brings me pride like you'd never believe.

"I've been lucky to share the pitch with legends. We've stood side-by-side, home and away, to keep pushing. Because we don't stop dreaming and there are chapters still to write.

"Let's write them together."

As an Arsenal player, Williamson has won one Women's Super League title, two Women's FA Cups, and the Women's Champions League last season.

Williamson has made only 10 appearances in all competitions this season. She came off the bench to score in Arsenal's 7-0 win over Leicester on Wednesday night.

Arsenal have made a push to secure the futures of key first-team players.

It was announced last month that Kim Little had signed a one-year contract extension, while new deals have recently been agreed with Stina Blackstenius and Steph Catley.