Arsenal have made it the clubs ‘key priority’ to make steps to increase diversity within the team.
The criticism from fans came from the sides 2023-24 squad photo which featured no black, Asian or ethnic minority players.
Arsenal have since responded with a statement acknowledging the situation.
“We acknowledge our current women’s first-team squad does not reflect the diversity that exists across the club and the communities we represent.”
“Across all our teams, including our men’s and women’s academies, we’re proud of our players from diverse backgrounds who have contributed to our history, success and culture.” Arsenal said in their statement.
Former Lioness Karen Carney who is the chairman of a review into women’s football identified the need to create greater diversity on and off the pitch earlier in the year.
Ex-Brighton defender Fern Whelan said in the report the lack of diversity across women’s football needs to be “urgently addressed”.
England’s side that won Euro 2020 featured only three mixed-heritage players – Jess Carter, Nikita Parris and Demi Stokes – neither of the players featured in a largely unchanged starting 11.
In 2021 it was estimated that only 10-15% of players in the Women’s Super League were black, Asian and minority.
Arsenal’s statement added: “Increasing participation among young women and girls from diverse backgrounds is a key priority for us at academy level, with specific measures in place to improve pathways and accessibility.”It’s a priority for the club to continue to drive greater diversity and inclusion and create a sense of belonging for everyone connected to the club.”
