Arsenal Vice-Captain Leah Williamson Set to Return Before Christmas After Knee Injury, Confirms Head Coach Renée Slegers — Return Date Revealed

 

 

Leah Williamson, vice‑captain of Arsenal Women and an integral figure for both club and country, is on track to return to action before Christmas following a knee injury. The update, provided by head coach Renée Slegers, has offered a positive note for Arsenal and fans alike.

The injury and context

Williamson suffered swelling in her right knee after playing the full 120 minutes of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final, in which England defeated Spain. Upon her return to Arsenal, a clean‑up surgical procedure was deemed necessary.

Importantly, while this is the same knee that previously sustained an ACL rupture in April 2023, the club confirmed that the new issue is not directly connected to the 2023 ACL injury.

Because of this procedure, Williamson missed the start of the 2025‑26 Women’s Super League campaign and the early matches of the season for Arsenal.

The return timeline

Coach Slegers provided the most authoritative update:

> “Everything is going forward as expected … we expect and hope to have her back before the winter break. Somewhere in November or December she might be back in full training. It’s a day‑to‑day, week‑to‑week thing.”

Thus, the key takeaway is that Williamson is expected to resume full training sometime in November or December 2025, with match action to follow once she is deemed ready

Why this matters

Williamson is one of Arsenal’s defensive leaders and a player who also brings national‑team experience, so her return bolsters the squad’s stability and experience.

With Arsenal competing on multiple fronts — domestic league, domestic cup, and Europe — having Williamson back adds depth and reassurance, especially during the intense winter period.

The fact that this injury is separate from her prior ACL gives confidence about her long‑term prospects and recovery trajectorym.

What to watch for

The step from full training to matchday readiness: while November/December is the training target, it may take additional time before she features in competitive matches.

How Arsenal manage her minutes on return to avoid rushing; given her recent injury history, a cautious approach is likely.

The impact on Arsenal’s season campaign: her presence will likely strengthen their defensive unit and leadership on the pitch, which could influence key matches in the winter and spring.

In summary

Leah Williamson’s return is projected for before Christmas 2025, with full training anticipated in November or December. This is positive news for both Arsenal and England; assuming her rehabilitation proceeds without setbacks, fans should anticipate her re‑joining the squad ahead of the busy winter run.