Jenna Nighswonger - Who is Arsenal’s New Number 22?

After a slow-moving, and arguably disappointing, start to the transfer window, Arsenal have confirmed the signing for 24-year-old fullback, Jenna Nighswonger.

Nighswonger signs from Gotham FC in the United States, where she spent two-years after being drafted to the NWSL side in January 2023. Across that time period she made 46 appearances for the club, as well as scoring four goals and contributing towards Gotham’s NWSL Championship win in 2023.

With the Nighswonger already boasting an impressive roster of achievements at just 24-years-old, it leaves the question to be asked, what exactly can she add to the current Arsenal squad?

First and foremost, the United States international offers depth to the North London side. Arsenal are lacking in a few positions, potentially needing another midfielder, no longer needing a lively winger after the announcement of Chloe kelly’s arrival. Whilst there isn’t exactly a dire need, there is an absence in the squad that makes the gap between Arsenal and Chelsea much greater. With Chelsea’s bench full of impact players, there’s a reason for the ten-point gap currently separating the two.

As well as adding depth, another thing Nighswonger offers is a unique versatility. Throughout her college days with the Florida State Seminoles, she primarily played in attacking roles. Across the time she spent there, she chalked up an impressive tally of 34 assists and 19 goals across 86 appearances.

Once she had made her move to Gotham, head coach Juan Carlos Amoros decided to play Nighswonger in the fullback position. “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.”

The switch not only showcased her versatility, but also led to an impressive breakout season that showcased the immense skill she possesses in a defensive role, winning 42 tackles (70%), and making 124 recoveries.

“I think versatility at this level is just so important, especially as the game is growing and tactics are changing. As a left back, specifically, it's nice to be able to play on the wing or go inside, go high and stuff like that. I think it's always an asset to be able to play multiple positions.”

Her achievements saw her receive two NWSL Rookie of the Month awards, before inevitably being picked as the 2023 NWSL Rookie of the Year.

International Career:

Alongside her already commendable club career, Nighswonger’s run representing her country has been equally as successful. Previous to her debut for the Senior team in November of 2023, she represented the States at every age group from the U16’s upwards.

Nighswonger currently has just 18 caps under her belt, just getting started with the United States Senior Team. She was part of the squad that lifted the Concacaf W Gold Cup in March of 2024, and was also a key figure in the side that achieved gold during last summer’s Paris Olympics.

Future:

Tactically, Nighswonger may be exactly what Arsenal needs to start to bridge the gap between league-leaders Chelsea and hopefully take a step towards securing silverware this season. Her adaptability means that we may see her in some higher positions, as she’s not afraid to make a break on the attack or take a shot at goal, but also means we could see players like Katie McCabe push forwards into the winger role whilst Nighswonger sits at left-back.

Whilst already a strong player who will have a lot to offer to Arsenal, with her young age there’s plenty of room for Nighswonger to continuously develop. Under the leadership of Renee Slegers, who believes the fullbacks maturity is way beyond her age, thinks Nighswonger will be a more than crucial asset in Arsenal securing more trophies in the hopefully near future.

Across the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, Nighswonger will definitely be one to watch. Her impact over the coming months could be crucial for Arsenal, with Champion’s League and two Cup trophies still in sight.