Jenna Nighswonger has officially begun her journey with Arsenal. After arriving in North London during the January transfer window, the USWNT star finally made her much-anticipated debut last night. Many assumed the Gunners spent $100,000 on her to fill the left-back position. However, in her first match, Nighswonger started in a rather unexpected role—one vastly different from the position she played at Gotham FC.

Many of you have often seen her play in the left-back position. However, in yesterday’s FA Women’s Cup fifth round against London City at Meadow Park, Jenna started in the midfield. To put it precisely, she took on the left-attacking role as she formed a trio alongside forward Caitlin Foord and Alessia Russo. Additional occasions saw her charging down the wing, basically taking on a lesser role of defending and more of creating.

Considering the position she played in the U.S, this sudden change intrigued many. However, manager Renée Slegers had a clear explanation, citing the team’s immediate needs. “Knowing that Jenna could play this role and the dynamics we had on the left side, we felt this would give the most ability to the team. Credit to Jenna for picking that up, because it’s not easy in a new team,” said the Dutch tactician, as compiled by journalist Jamie Spangher on X.

Well, we aren’t exactly surprised to see Nighswonger make the most of her contribution to the attack. Let us remind you, she was a natural midfielder before signing for Gotham in 2023. However, since the NWSL side had a shortage of left-backs, the 24-year-old got adjusted to play on the back line. So ardent fans can’t really call it an out-of-the-blue move from Slegers.

Starting her on attack is one thing, but Nighswonger couldn’t find the scoresheet. Instead, the home side was able to secure a 2-0 victory, courtesy of a half-an-hour strike from Laia Codina and an 81st-minute strike from substitute Stina Blackstenius. But unfortunately, Jenna’s debut lasted no more than 45 minutes. She was eventually substituted before the second half.

But then again, it was a necessary decision. After all, Slegers understands the importance of gradually introducing the new signee to a completely different football culture. But, do you agree with the Arsenal Women’s coach to experiment with Jenna by moving her back to her original position? And would it be recurrent?

Microscopic view of Jenna Nighswonger at Arsenal

Truth be told, it wouldn’t be surprising if Jenna Nighswonger continued as a left attacker. However, it all depends on the situation. Take the recent match, for example—Arsenal was coming off a demanding doubleheader against Manchester City. While they secured a 4-3 win in the initial WSL clash, they suffered a 2-1 defeat in the League Cup semifinal.

Stephanie Catley started both games, but in the latter defeat, she was replaced by Katie McCabe. Catley was a natural left-back until her role shifted in recent months, while McCabe is traditionally a wingback or midfielder. But given the new arrival, we could see Catley move back to center-back, with either McCabe or Nighswonger taking the left-back position.

Ultimately, the decision lies with Renée Slegers. But one question still lingers—can you imagine Nighswonger being thrown back into a position that she hasn’t played in years, and that too on her debut. That’s quite a risky yet brilliant way to make the first impression on a new team, isn’t it?