Arsenal Women’s team captain Kim Little is looking to go where no Brit has gone before. Her side are preparing for their first European final in 18 years! Save the date for May 24, 2025! Arsenal will be going up against Barcelona, the two-time defending back-to-back European champions, in Lisbon. Little has been an enormous presence on and off the field at Arsenal for 17 years. She’s been captain of the squad since 2017 and was one of the top midfielders in all of Europe last season.
Little’s journey with Arsenal has been remarkable. She really burst onto the scene, joining the club as an academy graduate. Today, she has transformed into that leader, now effecting change both on and off the pitch. Her experience and skill have been invaluable in leading her teammates to this exciting milestone. The team’s success in reaching the final reflects not only their talent but their determination and hard work throughout the tournament.
On their path to the final, Arsenal looked statistically dominant over each opponent. And like in their past two matches, they controlled possession as they outshot Lyon in the semis. More efficiency in the final third and a higher number of touches in the opposing box led them to score more goals. Notably, Lyon conceded more goals in 90 minutes against Arsenal than they had throughout the entire competition, showcasing Arsenal’s offensive prowess.
England captain Leah Williamson was hundreds like her who were first in line to praise Little’s value to the side. She stated, “Kim Little is an unbelievable footballer that goes under the radar.” Williamson went on to praise Little’s leadership qualities, adding, “She never really had the opportunity to do that at international level. What the team was able to do for her and just how she inspired us and led us, that’s really unique.
Little has a good partnership with Beth Mead and Leah Williamson. This bond has provided an inspiration-fueling, dynamic team atmosphere that dedicates a large part of their success. The true support system that exists in the pitch is on display as players come together to support each other at this crucial time.
Chloe Kelly, yet another vital cog for Arsenal, has gone through her own sea change career having joined from Manchester City. Once upon a time unsure of himself and almost an afterthought, Kelly has now established himself as one of the most shrewd and impactful Deadline Day signings. Her incorporation into the squad playing next to players like Little has served to bring even greater depth and versatility to Arsenal’s attack.
Credit goes to the coaching staff for continuing to develop Little’s skills while keeping her on the field. Kim Little’s club coach these days makes daily touchpoints with players a top priority. That makes it a perfect opportunity to let them air their grievances and offer their solutions without fear of retribution. Her open-door policy creates an atmosphere of trust and support that allows players to develop individually and work together more cohesively.
With Arsenal’s first ever clash against Barcelona lurking just around the corner, nervous but excited expectation fills the air in North London. Teammate Alessia Russo was equally thrilled and found herself getting “goosebumps” thinking about what the team has accomplished already. Both fans and players are abuzz with excitement for the finals. The world will be waiting to watch a moment that would make history for Arsenal Women.
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