Arsenal boss Renee Slegers has confirmed that Emily Fox is likely to miss Wednesday’s League Cup semi final clash with Manchester United after the defender suffered a head injury in the FA Cup win over Aston Villa.

The United States international came off in the 22nd minute of Arsenal’s 2-0 victory and was replaced by January signing Smilla Holmberg.

Fox has been an ever present figure in the Arsenal team this season, featuring in all 12 of their WSL clashes. Her absence for such a crucial semi final represents a significant blow to the Gunners, though Slegers will be hopeful that Fox can return for Arsenal’s vital WSL clash with Chelsea this weekend.

Slegers Taking Cautious Approach

The Arsenal manager explained the club’s careful handling of Fox’s injury. “We assessed her yesterday and today, and we just want to make really good decisions with Foxy. It’s looking likely she won’t be in the squad tomorrow, and then we will assess her again tomorrow and the day after. That’s where we’re at now with Foxy.”

This is the right approach from Slegers, who cannot afford to rush Fox back and risk a more serious injury. Head injuries must be treated with extreme caution, and Arsenal are sensibly prioritizing the player’s long term health over short term results.

Holmberg Could Start Against United

Fox’s absence will likely present a chance for new signing Holmberg to start against the Red Devils. The Swedish defender impressed after coming on against Villa and will be eager to prove herself in such a high profile fixture.

Slegers also confirmed that goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar will be in the squad after missing matches since November 19, while Leah Williamson remains unavailable.

Arsenal face a hectic schedule with the League Cup, Chelsea in the WSL, and the Women’s Champions Cup all upcoming.

Also read: Renee Slegers Signs New Arsenal Contract Until 2029 After Champions League Glory

Ella Toone has suffered a major injury setback, with the Manchester United midfielder expected to be sidelined until at least March. The England international has a bone stress in her hip but won’t require surgery, with Marc Skinner confirming she will return before the end of the season.

“She’ll be back before the end of the season. So, it’s probably about six to 10 weeks, depending on how it was from the point of it. So, you’re probably looking around six to eight weeks, something like that. Yeah, she’ll be back before the end of the season and ready to go. We’ll be looking forward to welcoming her back,” Skinner said.

Massive Loss for United’s Top Three Push

The timing could not be worse for United, who are entering the business end of the season fighting for a top three finish. Toone has started in 11 of United’s 12 WSL games this season with three goals and five assists to her name. Her five assists lead the entire league in creating chances for teammates, making her absence absolutely devastating for the Red Devils.

United sit fifth in the WSL table with a gap already forming between them and Chelsea in second. Only the top three teams earn automatic Champions League qualification and losing your most creative player for two months during this crucial period is a nightmare scenario.

Will Miss Champions League Last 16

Toone will definitely miss United’s Champions League last 16 tie against Atletico Madrid in early February. The Red Devils beat the Spanish side 1-0 in the league phase but facing them without their most creative midfielder makes the task significantly harder.

If the 26 year old returns in six weeks as expected, she could be back shortly after March’s international break. However, it is highly unlikely Toone will be fit enough to join Sarina Wiegman’s first England squad in 2026.

Also read: Ella Toone Stars With Goal and Three Assists as England Thrash China 8-0 at Wembley in Dominant Display

Manchester United have announced the signing of Sweden international Ellen Wangerheim on a three-year deal running until June 2029. The 21-year-old forward joins from Hammarby IF, confirming rumours that have been circulating for days and reported extensively in the Swedish media.

Wangerheim said: “I am so excited. It feels amazing to be here. It’s a huge club with big history. So sitting here in this shirt is a proud moment for me. It’s always been my dream to move abroad and to play in another country, in Europe and in a really big football club.”

Matt Johnson Secures One of Europe’s Best Young Talents

Director of women’s football Matt Johnson pulled off an excellent piece of business, beating several clubs to Wangerheim’s signature. “Ellen is one of Europe’s best young talents. As a dynamic, invasive and versatile forward Ellen brings variation and a natural scoring instinct to the team. Everyone at the club is excited to have her at Manchester United and the opportunity to help maximise her potential.”

The forward made over 100 appearances for Hammarby, winning the OBOS Damallsvenskan title and Swedish Cup in 2023. She was part of the Hammarby side that United played in the UEFA Women’s Champions League back in August, a match United won 1-0. That performance clearly caught Marc Skinner’s eye.

International Pedigree at Just 21

Wangerheim made her senior debut for Sweden in April 2024 in a 1-1 draw with England at Wembley Stadium, announcing herself on the international stage at a major venue. Her early call up demonstrates the high regard in which Swedish coaches hold her abilities.

Manchester United sit fifth in the WSL and desperately need attacking reinforcements after struggling for goals at times this season. Wangerheim represents the type of young, hungry talent that could transform their fortunes.

Also read: Sam Coffey makes feelings clear in farewell message as she joins WSL giants