Nigeria-eligible Omotara Junaid pens two-year professional deal with Arsenal

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Nigeria eligible midfielder, Omotara Junaid has agreed to an extended two-year professional deal with English Women’s Super League (WSL) side, Arsenal.

The prodigy shrugged off interest from WSL team, Chelsea before deciding to extending her stay with the Gunners as the Blues intended to bolster their academy ranks with the acquisition of Omotara.

Her new deal will see her gain promotion to the Arsenal U-21 squad for two seasons (2024/2025 and 2025/2026).

In a offer letter, leaked to NigeriaFootball.ng, Arsenal confirmed the signing, following her impressive display.

“Following your review meeting with your coaches, we are delighted to be able to offer you a two – year registration with Arsenal Women FC Pro Game Academy U 2 1 ’s Squad for the 2 4 – 2 5 & 25 – 2 6 season. Congratulations, you should be very proud of this achievement and all your hard work through out this season,” the letter said.

“It is a huge breakthrough and a testament to the hard work Tara has put into her game since the beginning of the season,” Omotara’s father, who is a UEFA B licensed coach told AllNigeriaSoccer.

“This will surely encourage her to work even better.”

Junaid is eligible to represent Nigeria, England, and the United States of America (USA).

Born in the USA to Nigerian parents, Omotara spent part of her childhood in Nigeria before moving to England.

Although she has played non-binding matches for England’s Young Lionesses, there’s a strong possibility she could opt for Nigeria if given the opportunity.

At Arsenal, Junaid has distinguished herself, becoming the second-highest goalscorer in the FA Girls’ England Talent Pathway League and playing a pivotal role in the U16s’ undefeated season and league title triumph, with her goals highlighting her effectiveness as a box-to-box midfielder.

Arsenal’s youth team coaches have also explored her potential as a right-back, but they see her best fit in the number 8 role, where her versatility, ball skills, tackling ability, and physicality shine.

Additionally, her skills as a winger, marked by dynamism and flair, make her a formidable force on the pitch.