- Matilda’s young talent Kyra Cooney-Cross has joined Arsenal
- The 21-year-old was a standout at the recent World Cup
- Joins a healthy contingent of Aussies playing in England
- Listen to the latest episode of the Mail Sport podcast ‘It all begins!’
Dynamic Matildas midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross has sealed a dream move from Swedish side Hammarby IF to Arsenal.
The 21-year-old will team up with international teammates Caitlin Foord and Steph Catley in north London and follows an impressive World Cup from the rising star, which saw Australia reach the semi-finals for the first time.
“I’m so excited to be joining this club,” said Cooney-Cross, who made her A-League Women’s debut for Melbourne Victory in 2017 as a 15-year-old.
‘Arsenal immediately felt good when I heard about the interest.
“I can’t wait to get started, play at the Emirates Stadium and help us achieve something great together.”
Matildas midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross has sealed a dream move from Swedish side Hammarby IF to Arsenal
It follows an impressive World Cup from the in-demand 21-year-old, which saw Australia reach the semi-finals for the first time
Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall was delighted that Cooney-Cross is now officially a Gunners player.
“Kyra is one of the best young players in world football,” he said.
‘Her passing ability and explosiveness ensure that she can influence matches in a way that you rarely see with such a young player.
‘We are convinced that she will be an excellent addition to our midfield, now and in the future.’
Cooney-Cross’ arrival at Arsenal adds to the ever-growing list of Aussies playing in England.
Matildas superstar Sam Kerr is at Chelsea, Foord and Catley are at Arsenal with Cooney-Cross, goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold calls West Ham home and Mary Fowler plus Alanna Kennedy play for Manchester City.
Elsewhere, veteran shot-stopper Lydia Williams is teammates with Mackenzie Hawkesby and Charlie Rule at Brighton and Hove Albion, Teagan Micah’s at Liverpool, Courtney Nevin and Remy Siemsen are on the books of Leicester City and Clare Wheeler at Everton.