Arsenal sign Rosa Kafaji as Eidevall praises ‘one of the most exciting young talents’ | Arsenal Women

Arsenal have completed the signing of Swedish striker Rosa Kafaji on a long-term contract. The 21-year-old was Häcken’s top scorer in 2023-24 with 15 goals and helped them reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Kafaji has played for the Gothenburg club since 2022 and has scored 28 goals in 61 games in all competitions.

She has been given the number 16 shirt and Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall said: “She is one of the most exciting young talents in the world and I have been a huge admirer of her game for a number of years. She plays with a fearlessness that belies her years and I know she has the hunger and mentality needed to realise her potential here at Arsenal.”

Kafaji made nine appearances for Sweden, including as a substitute at Wembley in April, where she provided the assist for the equaliser in a 1-1 draw against England in European Championship qualifying.

“It feels great to be joining this club,” she said. “I’m so happy to be here. I had a really good feeling after the conversation with Jonas and Clare (Wheatley, Arsenal’s director of women’s football) and it just feels good to be at Arsenal. I want to keep growing and I know this is the right place for me to do that and compete for the biggest trophies.”

Wheatley said: “Rosa is one of the best young players in the game and we are so pleased to have brought her to Arsenal. She has already gained a wealth of experience and has the ambition and desire to continue to develop and grow in our environment. I am sure our supporters will join me in welcoming Rosa to the club. We look forward to seeing her in red and white very soon.”

Arsenal’s 2024–25 competitive season begins with a Champions League qualifier against Rangers on 4 September, while the Women’s Super League season opener is at home to Manchester City on 22 September.