Arsenal duo Leah Williamson and Michelle Agyemang scoop European awards.

Arsenal duo Leah Williamson and Michelle Agyemang scoop European awards.

 

 

Leah Williamson has capped what can only be described as a stellar 2024–25 campaign by picking up the “Golden Player Woman” award from Italian publication Tuttosport.

Highlights of her year

As captain of Arsenal Women, Williamson played a central role in the club winning the UEFA Women’s Champions League in May 2025 — the club’s first in 18 years.

Shortly afterwards, she led the England women’s national football team (the Lionesses) to retain their title at the UEFA Women’s European Championship.

Her leadership on and off the pitch was recognised as one of the keys to Arsenal’s resurgence, and she referenced the club legacy of which she has been part for years.

Significance

Williamson’s award reflects the convergence of club and country success. Winning both major European trophies in the same year is rare, and her contribution as a defender and captain stands out. For a player who rose through the Arsenal ranks, it has a deeply personal resonance — one she described as a “moment to tell the grandkids about.”

Michelle Agyemang

At just 19 years old, Michelle Agyemang has earned herself the “Golden Girl 2025” title from Tuttosport — an award handed to the most impressive young female player in Europe.

Breakout moments

Agyemang was a super-sub for England at the Euros, scoring two very late and decisive goals: one in the quarter-final against Sweden and another in the semi-final versus Italy. These goals kept England in the tournament and helped pave the way to the final.

Earlier in the season, she spent time on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion Women from Arsenal, where she gained valuable playing minutes in the WSL.

Unfortunately, after her stellar summer, she suffered a torn ACL in international duty, which has ruled her out for the rest of the season.

Why this matters

Agyemang’s award and emergence underline two key things: (1) the depth of talent at Arsenal and in the England squad, and (2) the importance of impactful moments — her goals didn’t just arrive, they arrived when it mattered most. She is now recognised as one of the most promising talents in European women’s football.

Context & Broader Impact

Both players’ awards were given by a respected publication (Tuttosport) and reflect European-wide recognition, not just domestic accolades.

Their successes come at a time when women’s football in England (and at club level) is gaining increasing prominence, investment and media coverage.

For Arsenal, having both a senior star (Williamson) and a young breakout talent (Agyemang) recognised in the same year helps reinforce the club’s legacy and future in women’s football.

It also exemplifies how performances in major tournaments (Champions League, Euros) significantly elevate player profiles and career trajectories.

Sum-Up

Leah Williamson and Michelle Agyemang have each had landmark years, albeit at different stages of their careers. Williamson, as an experienced captain, delivered silverware and leadership; Agyemang, as a rising star, made decisive match-winning contributions in big moments. Their dual honours serve as a testament to individual excellence, and to the strength of both Arsenal and the England national side.