The forward now faces between six and 12 months on the sidelines, though Sam Kerr spent 20 months out of the game after she ruptured her ACL in January 2024.
It is incredibly hard to predict how Agyemang’s rehab will go as every player has a different experience.
Mead missed 11 months of football after rupturing her ACL, though that included the off season, as did Kelly, while Williamson returned in 10. Vivianne Miedema was also out for 11 months but has had far more complications than the other three after returning to football.
The Dutch international has required more surgery and had other injury issues while Mead, Kelly and Williamson have generally had a better return – though the latter is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
By the time Agyemang returns from the injury, Arsenal will have a decision to make as to whether they find the forward another loan move or try to integrate her into their first team.
Russo is the starting striker for Arsenal while they also have Stina Blackstenius as a back-up option. The club will no doubt be frustrated that her loan with Brighton has been cut short and will have to work out the best route back into regular football when she returns from injury.
Why the forward can stay positive
Agyemang is only 19 and has plenty of years of professional football ahead of her.
While this injury is a blow, she took part in the Euros with hardly any senior international experience and Wiegman will likely not be too concerned over how much football she plays before the World Cup, should she return promptly.
The forward also has plenty of team-mates she can lean on for advice. Mead was one of the first to comment on Agyemang’s social media post while she forged a close friendship with Kelly during the Euros.
She also has a good support network around her which she will need to draw upon in the coming months.
