Which Arsenal players risk missing the Under‑20 Women’s World Cup

Which Arsenal players could be called up for the Under‑20 Women World Cup remains uncertain as England’s preparations continue, with injuries, selection battles and club decisions set to shape Arsenal’s representation in Poland. The tournament runs from 5 to 27 September, and clubs retain the right to keep players at home.

Tournament details and governing issues

The Under‑20 Women’s World Cup will be staged in Poland from 5 to 27 September. It is not part of the FIFA international calendar, meaning clubs are not obliged to release players.

There is speculation that UEFA may boycott the event amid an ongoing dispute with FIFA. The BBC has confirmed that the French Football Federation (FFF) will take part, while no official word has come from the FA regarding England’s participation.

Arsenal’s eligible players and their prospects

Among Arsenal’s current players on professional contracts, the eligible list includes Michelle Agyemang, Katie Reid, Jessie Gale, Cecily Wellesley‑Smith, Vivienne Lia, Maddie Earl and Sophie Harwood. Former Arsenal defender Laila Harbert, who recently left the club, has also captained the England Under‑20 side.

Cecily Wellesley‑Smith appears a certainty for the tournament and is currently on loan at Rosengård in Sweden. Vivienne Lia and Jessie Gale have strong chances and could provide useful bench options. Sophie Harwood holds an outside chance after receiving her first Under‑20 call‑up and will need to impress during the Portugal camp. Maddie Earl has not featured in recent Under‑20 squads, limiting her prospects.

UEFA suspends boycott plans, keeps pressure on FIFA

Two players who would be starters if fully fit are Michelle Agyemang and Katie Reid, both recovering from ACL injuries. Reid was injured in early November 2025 and Agyemang at the end of October 2025; they are now around ten months into rehabilitation and participated in Arsenal’s training camp in La Manga, Spain.

Emma Hayes highlighted the importance of the Under‑20 event, saying, “I consider the Under‑20 event the biggest platform for young players to play in,” in an exclusive interview with . She added, “I keep thinking about so many of our players that, whether they miss the Under‑17, how critical it is for them to come through the Under‑20s.”

France manager Philippe Joly made a similar point, stating, “I’ve already picked my squad in my head… but there may be a slight difference between what I want to do and what the clubs will allow me to do.” He explained that a provisional squad of 55 players will be drawn up and clubs consulted.

Based on the available information, the most likely Arsenal representation will be three current players – Wellesley‑Smith, Gale and Lia – alongside former Gunner Laila Harbert.