Arsenal Women Embrace Change with Squad Number Update
Arsenal’s summer reset has taken a visible step, with four members of the women’s team handed new shirt numbers for the 2026/27 season – and each change carries real weight.
New Shirt Numbers
Goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar moves to the most symbolic jersey of all, taking the No 1 shirt. It’s a clear statement. The Dutch international, already a commanding presence between the posts, now wears the traditional marker of a first-choice keeper. On team sheets and replica kits alike, she is now unmistakably the one.
Up front, Caitlin Foord steps into the No 9. That number at Arsenal comes with history and expectation, and Foord has long played with the kind of direct, incisive edge that suits a centre-forward’s shirt. Whether she starts wide or through the middle, the new number underlines her status as one of the side’s primary goal threats.
Olivia Smith, the exciting attacking talent, takes on No 11. It’s the number often associated with flair on the flank, with creativity and courage in one-on-one duels. For a player who thrives in advanced areas, it feels like a natural fit and a nod to the role she’s expected to play in the coming campaign.
Rising prospect Michelle Agyemang moves to No 17, a number that has often belonged to versatile, modern forwards. For a young player on the rise, it marks her out as part of the core group rather than just a name on the fringes. It’s a small change on paper, but a significant one in terms of status.
Supporters' Response
The club has also moved quickly to look after supporters. Fans who have already bought 2026/27 jerseys with the old numbers through Arsenal Direct can request a free refund. Those who picked up their shirts at the Armoury or Highbury stores aren’t left behind either: they can bring their jersey back in for a free exchange to the new number, provided they show proof of purchase.
New season, new numbers, and a clear sense of who will carry the responsibility on their backs when Arsenal Women step out again.
