The women’s side of the beautiful game is blessed with a remarkable domestic scene. At the top are typically the American-based NWSL and England’s WSL. While both leagues are entertaining and face their own challenges, players often find themselves making tough choices between the two. Emily Fox is one such player who experienced this dilemma, as the USWNT defender reveals what she finds ‘really special’ about the WSL that compelled her to leave her own country’s league.

The recent Olympic gold medalist has spent just over two seasons at NWSL between 2021 to 2023 for Racing Louisville and North Carolina Courage, before joining Arsenal this season. Though everything seemed fine in the States, Fox still lacked some kind of kick in her career. “First, I just wanted to have a change and push myself, both on and off the pitch,” she began in the latest episode of The Women’s Game podcast.

Of course, when abroad, leveling up her game remains the first priority for Emily and what better way it is by not just competing among some of the most renowned English rivals, but also playing against other European clubs in the iconic UEFA Women’s Champions League. Then again, there was something about what Arsenal was providing that Fox couldn’t turn down.

“Specifically with Arsenal, I just felt like they aligned a lot with my values in terms of wanting the women’s game to grow, not only for the club but in England and globally and so I thought that was really special, I wanted to challenge myself and put myself in an environment that was going to be uncomfortable—360,” added the 26-year-old, before citing the example of Sam Mewis, who enjoyed her fair share of memories at Manchester City ladies.

Beyond her own new teammates, Fox also insisted on learning from her rival WSL stars as well, something which clearly suggests the kind of zeal the right-back has to improve her game daily. However, would she ever think of returning to her nation’s domestic setup in the near future?

Here’s why Emily Fox will never leave Arsenal for NWSL again!

Earlier, while addressing the media, Emily Fox was asked whether she’d fancy a return to NWSL. Surprisingly, the defender replied, “I’m really committed to Arsenal. I’m saying that because it’s 100% how I feel! I can’t imagine going anywhere else.”

It’s not like Fox doesn’t think highly of NWSL. In fact, she believes that with the emergence of the Collective Bargain Agreement (CBA), the American-based league has the likelihood of attracting a quality soccer crowd including sellout stadiums, players, and coaches.

“…That will definitely happen…especially just in terms of the NWSL, with the CBA that just passed, that would be more appealing. And there’s also the WSL, with us getting sold-out crowds. There are a lot of things in both leagues that can attract players,” she said.

While it was great to hear such praise from Emily Fox regarding the NWSL, she certainly seems to be enjoying herself in the WSL for the time being.