Arsenal have confirmed midfielder Victoria Pelova is the latest player in their squad to suffer an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
The 25-year-old was forced off 12 minutes into the Netherlands’ UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier against Finland earlier this month with an apparent knee injury.
After undergoing further testing, Arsenal have now confirmed the full extent of the problem and Pelova will face an extended period on the sidelines as she undergoes surgery and rehabilitation.
Pelova has become an integral figure under Jonas Eidevall since her arrival in north London in January last year. The Dutch international played in all 22 of Arsenal’s WSL games last season, scoring twice and registering five assists.
Her injury will surely serve as a huge blow for Arsenal. The club in recent years have missed Beth Mead, Laura Wienroither, Leah Williamson and Teyah Goldie who have all ruptured their ACL’s in recent seasons.
Despite Arsenal’s extended injury list last season, they secured a top three finish in the WSL just five points behind Manchester City in second.
Though Pelova will be missed, Arsenal will dwell on their squad depth in midfield, with Kyra Cooney-Cross and the returning Kathrine Kuhl taking charge.
Arsenal will also be without Pelova in their Champions League qualifying campaign at the end of the summer, where they will hope to improve on their disappointing round one exit last season at the hands of Paris FC.
