Olivia Smith just won the Young Player of the Year, but she wants more
The countdown to the return of the Women's Super League is very much on. As Arsenal chase a first league title since 2019, the Gunners will commence their campaign against Brighton & Hove Albion at Broadfield on Sunday 6 September.
As an amuse-bouche for the year ahead, members of Renée Slegers' squad enjoyed a successful night at the PFA awards on Tuesday. Emily Fox, Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo were all named in WSL team of the season, while Olivia Smith picked up an even bigger prize.
For the second season in a row, the Canadian international was named PFA Women's Young Player of the Year. Proudly with the trophy in hand, speaking at the Opera House Manchester, Smith notes that she is dreaming of collecting even bigger prizes in the future:
The 22 year old joined Arsenal from Liverpool for £1 million a year ago, which was a world-record fee at the time, albeit has since been surpassed five times.
A statement debut goal for Olivia Smith 😮💨🚀 pic.twitter.com/XjamsyX0Wo
Smith scored a rocket against London City Lionesses on her debut, netting ten times across all competitions. This includes goals against AS FAR and then Corinthians as the Gunners became the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup champions.
Now, Slegers' side are seeking even more illustrious titles. Manchester City ended Chelsea's streak of six successive WSL titles, with Arsenal now desperate to become champions for the first time in eight years.
If the Gunners are going to enjoy success both domestically and in the Champions League, awaiting the league phase draw on 4 September, then Smith is likely to be a key figure. This is a huge year in general for the 22 year old, concluding at next summer's World Cup in Brazil.
Canada have never won the World Cup, crashing out in the group stages in Australia in 2023, but were Olympic Gold Medalists in 2021, showing what the Canucks are capable of. Thus, Smith will continue to be a key figure for both club and country. She was fully deserving of her Young Player of the Year title, but what other accolades will be coming her way in the next 12 months?
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