Arsenal have announced the departure of Canadian winger, Cloé Lacasse, for the Utah Royals on a permanent transfer.
Arsenal signed Lacasse from Benfica in Portugal during the summer window of 2023.
The Canadian international made her debut for the club in September during the UEFA Women’s Champions League Round 1 qualifier against Linköping in Sweden.
During her singular season in North London, Lacasse made a total of 28 appearances (with only six starts) in red and white, scoring five goals and delivering two assists.
In her time as a Gunner, she also represented the Canada Women’s National Team at the 2023 World Cup, 2024 Gold Cup, and 2024 Olympics.
Prior to playing professionally, Lacasse attended the University of Iowa in the United States where she scored 43 goals and made 26 assists in 85 appearances during her four-year college career.
She left Iowa tied in points for the school record.
Thirteen of her collegiate goals were game-winning, making her the second in Iowa school history.
After professional spells in Iceland, Portugal, and England, the Canadian forward is making a return to the United States.
Her Utah Royals contract will last through the 2027 NWSL season.
The Royals are currently 14th in the NWSL having won only two of their 16 games during the 2024 regular season.
Regarding her departure, Lacasse said, “Although my time at Arsenal was short, it was filled with memorable moments, thanks to the incredible teammates, staff and fans.
“I’m grateful for the experience and will always carry with me the memory of scoring in front of you all at a sold-out Emirates Stadium. I wish the team, the club and all you Gooners the very best moving forward.”
Kelly Cousins, the Sporting Director at Utah Royals, said, “We are excited to be adding a player of Cloé’s quality to our squad.
“Her ability on the ball is world-class, but her industry on both sides of the ball speaks to her character. Her presence will be important in continuing to build our club’s culture on and off the field.”
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