Suddenly a picture of the Arsenal women’s team had been viewed more than four million times online. Twenty-seven players, but not a single one with a tan. In the highly diverse area of North London, the club has been subjected to a significant amount of criticism on social media, ranging from “shocking” to “disturbing”. Arsenal have now responded too and want to make the lack of diversity a priority.
“A beautiful picture. But no professional team, whether women or men, can be all-white in 2023, is the comment that sums up most of the responses. The English club did not initially respond to traditional media questions about the image of the striking team. But after a constant stream of negative messages, Arsenal have now issued a statement.
A statement to The Athletic said: “We recognize that our current women’s squad does not reflect the diversity that exists within the club and the communities we represent.”
“Increasing participation among young women and girls from different backgrounds is a key priority for us, with specific measures in place to improve pathways and accessibility. In all our teams, both women and men, we are proud of our players from different backgrounds who have contributed to our history, success and culture.
“It is a priority for the club to continue to strive for greater diversity and inclusion to create a sense of belonging for everyone who cares about the club.”
With women’s football becoming professional, there are now some young men who are falling by the wayside
When the Lionesses – the England team that recently lost the World Cup final to Spain – won the European Championship last year, this was also a theme. This team included only three players of non-English origin. Ian Wright, the former Arsenal striker and now respected pundit on the channel, described this as a “systemic problem”. Former England international Eniola Aluko then stated that there was something wrong with his recruitment for the national team.
Aluko: “The bottom line is that we have to take a broader view. The talent is there, and the FA now just needs to see where they can provide better guidance. Coaching practices have changed a bit, because with the professionalization of women’s football, there are now some youngsters who are falling through.” On the road side”.
After the European Championship, the Federation launched the “Discover My Talent” campaign, which aimed to ensure easier entry and more inclusivity into football.
According to the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), nearly ten percent of players were of color in the 2021-2022 season. This percentage has now increased by five percent.
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