Did Cecily Wellesley-Smith Just Sign Her First Pro Contract with Arsenal?
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Synopsis
Cecily Wellesley-Smith's signing with Arsenal marks a significant milestone in her career as a young defender. At just 18, she is poised to make her mark in professional football after a stellar youth career. Discover her journey and aspirations as she embarks on this exciting new chapter.
Key Takeaways
- Cecily Wellesley-Smith has signed her first professional contract with Arsenal.
- She is an 18-year-old defender with a promising career.
- Cecily has trained with the women’s first team regularly.
- She played a significant role in winning the 2024/25 PGA League Under-21 Division One.
- Her journey reflects the growth of women’s football in England.
London, June 24 (NationPress) Cecily Wellesley-Smith has officially signed her inaugural professional contract with Arsenal. The 18-year-old defender, who is also an England youth international, joined the club at 17 in August 2024 after developing her skills in the youth ranks at Oxford United.
During her tenure at Arsenal, Cecily played a pivotal role in securing the 2024/25 PGA League Under-21 Division One title for the Gunners under-21 team and has been consistently training with the women’s first team in recent months.
“I’m incredibly proud to sign my first professional contract with Arsenal,” expressed Cecily.
“My experience here has been remarkable, learning from some of the top players and coaching staff, and understanding what it truly means to represent such a prestigious club. I’m eager to continue working hard to develop and advance as I embark on my professional journey.”
Last season, Cecily was on a dual-registration agreement with Oxford United in the FA Women’s National League South, where she made 16 appearances.
James Honeyman, Head of Player Development, stated, “Cecily has been with Arsenal for just over a year, showcasing her dedication and love for both the club and the sport. We are immensely proud of her journey and the strides she is making toward transitioning into the senior team. We look forward to supporting her continued development in the red and white.”
Cecily has also represented England at the UEFA European Women’s Under-17 Championship in Sweden in May 2024 and the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in the Dominican Republic in October 2024.
Clare Wheatley, Director of Women’s Football, added, “Everyone at the club is excited to see another young talent sign professional terms with us. Cecily exhibits an exceptional work ethic and attitude, which we believe will serve her well as she continues to grow and excel here at Arsenal.”
Point of View
We recognize Cecily Wellesley-Smith's signing as a significant advancement in women's football. Her determination and talent reflect a promising future not only for her but also for the sport as a whole. We celebrate this achievement and look forward to following her career closely.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What position does Cecily Wellesley-Smith play?
Cecily Wellesley-Smith is a defender.
When did Cecily join Arsenal?
Cecily joined Arsenal at the age of 17 in August 2024.
How many appearances did Cecily make last season?
Cecily made 16 appearances last season.
Has Cecily represented the England youth team?
Yes, Cecily has represented England at the UEFA European Women’s Under-17 Championship and the FIFA Under-17 World Cup.
What title did Cecily help win with the under-21 team?
Cecily helped the Gunners under-21s win the 2024/25 PGA League Under-21 Division One title.
