A move that’s meant to be: 10 years after spurning Arsenal, England star Fara Williams makes amends

Published: 7 January, 2016
by STEVE BARNETT

NEW signing Fara Williams believes her move to Arsenal Ladies was “meant to be” – especially after spurning a chance to join the club 10 years ago. 

The 31-year-old midfielder is England’s most-capped player of all time, having represented her country on 148 occasions. 

She was part of the England Lionesses squad that finished third at last year’s World Cup and was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours. 

Williams completed her switch from Liverpool to Arsenal on Monday, and says the faith manager Pedro Martinez Losa has shown in her was instrumental to her move to north London – although she feels that fate also played a big part. 

“Pedro has made me feel great as a player,” she told Arsenal Player. “He has told me the qualities I can bring and, as a player, if you have manager that is showing that kind of trust in you and the qualities he thinks you can bring, it really shows that element of confidence that I need. 

“Certainly when I first met him, he really made me feel like this is a club I need to be at. 

“This move could have happened for me 10 years ago but through many different decisions I decided to go a different way. 

“I think this is meant to be. I had an opportunity to come to this club and went other ways and it has brought me back. 

“So definitely I think it is the place to be.” 

During spells with Liverpool, Everton, Charlton Athletic and Chelsea, Williams has lifted two league titles and one FA Cup. 

She has also been recognised with a string of personal accolades, including the FA Players’ Player of the Year and FA Young Player of the Year awards. 

Arsenal boss Losa said he was thrilled to add such quality to his ranks. “We are delighted to welcome Fara to the club. She is a great competitor and a fantastic character too,” he said. 

“She is a player with huge experience at club and international level, and her reading and understanding of the game is fantastic. 

“She is an exciting addition to the squad, and I look forward to working with her as we begin preparations for the 2016 season.” 

Williams is Arsenal’s third new signing, alongside young Irish striker Katie McCabe and Dutch midfielder Daniëlle van de Donk.