Heather O'Reilly has made the move. The star midfielder, who scored 47 goals in 231 appearances for the USWNT, signed with Arsenal Ladies. Te move was officially announced by Arsenal on Wednesday.
"Having come over to Arsenal last year to train, I was very impressed with the club. The facilities are world class and they have a tradition of excellence at the club that I wanted to be a part of, I’m very happy to be here,” O’Reilly said.
The New Jersey native will join former teammates Crystal Dunn and Alex Morgan abroad as Dunn signed with Chelsea and Morgan signed with Lyon. O’Reilly has been a part of FC Kansas City in NWSL and the US women’s national team. After winning three Olympic gold medals and the 2015 Women’s World Cup the player decided to take a break and retire from the national team in September 2016.
Her career did not come to an end, as she revealed, “I have always dreamed of playing in Europe, and Arsenal is a club that has a tradition of excellence that I think is really special.”
“She is a world class player and one of the most respected players in the US. Her determination and character will make a big difference for this club. She will bring here a legacy of values, hard work and professionalism, which will also help our young players to develop. It is a privilege for us to be able to bring her to Arsenal Ladies," Arsenal Ladies Manager Pedro Martinez Losa said.
Beyond excited to announce that I have signed with @ArsenalLadies! It's an honor to join a club with an incredible history of excellence. pic.twitter.com/eIECaLS3o9
— Heather O'Reilly (@HeatherOReilly) January 18, 2017
O'reilly's contract will run for 18 months.
