Arsenal’s Kyra Cooney-Cross to dedicate Emirates return to her mum

Cooney-Cross is one of Australia’s brightest stars. She broke into the international side at 19 and has made 63 appearances, starting all seven matches at the home World Cup in 2023.

She says continuing to train back home while spending time with her family was a welcome distraction from the emotional situation she was facing.

“I was training Monday to Friday on the pitch with a one-on-one coach and then I had a gym facility as well,” she said.

“I did it because it was also an escape. I felt more free and like I could escape from everything that was going on off the pitch.

“I also did it because I knew that’s what mum would want and I wanted to come back this season and be as fit as possible.”

Returning to football after six months away from the game is a daunting prospect for any athlete, but the midfielder says Arsenal’s care for her during her time away was “amazing”.

Head coach Renee Slegers and director of women’s football Claire Wheatley checked in regularly, while team-mates Alessia Russo and Taylor Hinds have also been huge emotional supports for her.

“That’s when you need people and those that love you and care about you will be there for you,” said Cooney-Cross.

“I was sad to leave my family, but at the same time, I also felt ready to come back. I had to bite the bullet. I’m so glad I did because honestly everyone has been so amazing.

“I’ve been distracted, I’ve been supported and it’s been a really smooth transition. I’ve got good people around me.”

Cooney-Cross was an unused substitute in Arsenal’s opening game of the season against Brighton. The last time her mum saw her play football was at the Emirates, and the midfielder hopes to make her proud when she returns to the stadium this weekend.

“She was always the best at sending messages and I read this one [text] message before every game. The way she writes is so beautiful. I think a lot about how I go about life. I think about what she would say or do.

“A lot of my purpose is because of her and my drive, but even more so now. I just want to play and do really well for her and bring joy into the sadness of my family.”