Arsenal defender Leah Williamson is set to play for the first time since the Euro 2025 final, after spending four months out with a knee injury. Manager Renee Slegers says the England captain will get “a couple of minutes” in Arsenal’s Women’s Champions League match against FC Twente on Tuesday.
Williamson didn’t play in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Liverpool at the weekend but was on the bench as part of her return to normal match routines. She has now completed full training sessions and is fit enough to be included in the squad, although she will not start.
The 28-year-old’s last game was the Euro 2025 final, where she led the Lionesses to back-to-back European titles. After the tournament, she needed a small knee procedure that kept her out of action.
During Williamson’s absence, Arsenal have struggled to repeat last season’s strong form under Slegers. They are currently eight points behind Manchester City in the Women’s Super League, and sit 10th in the Champions League league phase with two wins from four games.
Slegers said Williamson has worked hard in recovery and is “in a really good place.” The international break slightly delayed her comeback because she couldn’t train in full 11v11 sessions, but she is now ready.
Arsenal captain Kim Little is also back from a calf injury and came off the bench against Liverpool. Slegers says they will be careful managing her minutes but hasn’t ruled out starting her against FC Twente.
The return of Williamson and Little could help boost Arsenal, who need better results to reach the Champions League knockout stage. Slegers added that confidence is built through actions, not talk, and praised the squad for staying committed despite recent challenges.
