She Shoots, She Scores

Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers confirmed today that Kyra Cooney-Cross will not return to the squad for the remainder of the season.

The midfielder announced in January that her mother Jess had been diagnosed with Stage IV cholangiocarinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer with no cure, and subsequently returned to Australia to be with her family following the devastating diagnosis. In her press talk today ahead of the North London Derby, Slegers addressed that while fellow Matilda’s and Gunners have returned to training following the recent Asian Cup; held in Australia, Kyra had remained in the country to continue to support her family during this difficult time, and that she would not return before the end of the season.

Kyra featured in six of Arsenal league games this season, starting in only three for a total of 304 minutes, as well as 377 in the Champions League across 7 games. her lack of game time caused backlash from fans, who questioned the decision considering how strong of a player she had proved to be in the team in the previous season.

Following the news of her mums diagnosis, both players and fans came together to show their support. Ahead of Arsenal’s league game against Manchester United, her teammates sported her 32 jersey in their warmup, while fans arrived with signs of support reading ‘We love you Kyra and Jess’. A standing ovation was also held in the 32nd minute, truly bringing together the ‘One Arsenal’ spirit of community, support and connection.

As devastating this news is for both player and team, some moments are bigger than the game, and it’s clear to see the support and love the Cooney-Cross family have behind them across the whole of the football community.