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Arsenal Women’s pursuit of their top target, Mary Earps, may hit a roadblock this summer, with reports suggesting that the goalkeeper could reconsider her move to the Gunners.
This potential change of heart comes in the wake of Arsenal’s elimination from UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifying.
Jonas Eidevall’s squad suffered a heartbreaking exit, losing 4-2 in the penalty shootout following a thrilling 3-3 draw after extra time against Paris FC.
Mary Earps, the England goalkeeper, had been reportedly keen on leaving Manchester United this summer, with just one year left on her contract. However, she may have second thoughts if Manchester United qualifies for the group stage of the Champions League.
Manchester United, after finishing third in the Women’s Super League last season, will bypass the qualifying rounds and go directly into round two of the competition. Reports indicate that Earps has aspirations of playing in the Champions League this season, a goal that seems unlikely at Arsenal due to their recent elimination.
Addressing the situation, Eidevall stated, “There might be business to be done, but no comments on [Mary Earps].” This leaves room for speculation regarding the ongoing transfer pursuit of the talented goalkeeper.
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Arsenal Women had reached the semi-finals of the Champions League last season, but this year’s campaign took an unexpected turn as they were eliminated in the first qualifying round at the Linkoping Arena in Sweden.
Alessia Russo, in her first season with Arsenal, found the net twice but faltered in the penalty shootout along with Frida Maanum. Despite Daphne Corboz’s failed attempt, Louna Ribadeira sealed the victory for Paris FC with her decisive spot-kick.
The match had seen Mathilde Bourdieu break the deadlock with a close-range header, followed by another goal just a minute later. Russo scored her first goals for Arsenal late in the game, and Jen Beattie, a substitute, headed in an equalizer in the 96th minute, sending the contest into extra time.
Corboz briefly put Paris FC ahead in the second period of extra time, only for Russo to secure her second goal of the match and level the score for Arsenal.
As the dust settles on Arsenal Women’s early exit from the Champions League, the uncertainty surrounding Mary Earps’ potential move to the club adds another layer of intrigue to their summer transfer plans.
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