The media has focused heavily on Arsenal's new attacking player, Alessia Russo, and rightfully so! But is it time to steer away from the Gunners brilliant strike force ahead of the 2023/24 season, and take a look at the Swedish centre-back Amanda Ilestedt.
Ilestedt may have not been a household name prior to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, but after an impressive campaign many managers wish she was joining their squad!
An astonishing 4 goals in 7 games helped Sweden earn a bronze medal. Despite being knocked out in the semi-finals by the champions Spain, Sweden went on to beat the hosts Australia in the third place match.
As a defender, scoring goals isn't Ilestedt's priority, but the fact she can do so consistently in football's arguably biggest competition is extremely hopeful for Arsenal. The majority of her goals came aerially, which is not only beneficial in the oppositions box, but useful when defending their own net too!
Arsenal's squad suffered greatly last season, as reminisced in the 'Togetherness' series by Arsenal, due to multiple injuries- three of which were the dreaded three letters for Beth Mead, Vivianne Miedema and Leah Williamson. On top of this, Rafaelle has left the club, which means the defence is looking more scarce at the North London club. Not only are more players required to fill the gaps and provide more squad depth, but also to prevent goals being conceded. Therefore, Amanda's arrival is at a perfect time.
Jonas Eidevall has hopes of going far in all competitions- including the Champions League- as well as gain silverware in the Women's Super League. With the additional support from Amanda Ilestedt, the Gunners are one step closer to making these dreams a reality.
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