Jessie Gale signs first professional Arsenal contract | OneFootball

Jessie Gale has signed her first professional contract following a breakout campaign in which the 18-year-old striker made her mark both domestically and on the international stage.

The England Under-19 international joined the club’s academy in January 2024 and has since become a pivotal figure for the under-21s, playing a key role in securing the FIFA Youth Cup in Zurich and the PGA League Under-21 Division One title.

Operating on a dual-registration agreement with Watford, Gale featured 21 times across all competitions during the 2024–25 campaign, scoring seven goals and supplying five assists. Her form earned her a call-up to Lauren Smith’s England U19 squad in October 2024, where she contributed three goals and one assist in five appearances to help secure qualification for the European Championship.

Speaking after signing her contract, Gale said, “I’m delighted to sign my first professional contract here at Arsenal. This is a special club with great history and ambitions for the future, and it’s incredible to be part of that. I’ve had the opportunity to train alongside the first team here as well as gaining experience elsewhere, and now I’m looking forward to continuing to work hard to develop and progress as a player.”

James Honeyman, Head of Player Development, praised the striker’s trajectory: “Since joining Arsenal, Jessie has given everything to developing not only as a footballer but as a person as well. She takes every opportunity that comes her way and we’re all proud of her journey so far. Jessie has got a big future ahead of her and we look forward to seeing her develop at Arsenal.”

Clare Wheatley, Director of Women’s Football, added: “We’re thrilled that Jessie has signed her first professional contract with us. Jessie has played a key part in our under-21s team over the past year and a half and has shown real dedication to developing as a footballer. We look forward to seeing Jessie continue to grow here.”