It’s official — Canadian international Olivia Smith has joined Arsenal Women on a long-term contract, marking a historic moment in her career and for the global growth of women’s soccer.
At just 20 years old, Smith is making headlines with a high-profile transfer from Liverpool to Arsenal for an undisclosed amount, rumoured to be approximately $1.34 million USD (one million pounds sterling) — making it the highest transfer fee ever paid for a female player.
Statement from Olivia Smith:
“I’m beyond excited to join Arsenal. This is a huge step forward for women’s soccer and for Canadian soccer. To be part of a movement that’s changing how the game is valued is an honour. I hope this shows young Canadian girls that anything is possible.”
After standout seasons with Sporting CP and Liverpool FC, Olivia Smith’s meteoric rise continues as she joins the 2024–25 UEFA Women’s Champions League winners — where she’s expected to be a key contributor both on and off the pitch.
In 2023–24, Smith was a breakout force, earning both Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season honours in Portugal’s Liga BPI. Her impact was equally felt on the international stage, where she was named Best Young Player at the 2024 CONCACAF W Gold Cup. Now, as she steps onto one of football’s biggest stages, Olivia arrives with multiple nominations for top honours in England — including PFA Young Player of the Year, Barclays WSL Player of the Season, and Barclays WSL Rising Star for 2024–25.
Smith’s signing stands as both a recognition of her elite talent and a pivotal moment signaling a new chapter for Canadian women’s soccer on the world stage.