Done Deal: Arsenal confirms signature of world-class defender who scored 32 goals in very few games

Done Deal: Arsenal confirms signing of world-class defender who scored 70 goals in 74 games

Arsenal’s Scottish defender Jennifer Beattie celebrates after her team second goal during the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final second-leg match between Arsenal and Wolfsburg at the Arsenal Stadium, in London, on May 1, 2023. (Photo by Ben Stansall / AFP) (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)
An inspiring professional athlete, she continues to demonstrate her formidable strength both on and off the pitch.

Jen Beattie, the revered Arsenal defender, has signed a new contract with the club.
Despite her cancer diagnosis in October 2020, Beattie bravely continued her career, making significant contributions to Arsenal’s back line.

Beattie’s unwavering commitment to the sport, and her recent health battles, have been recognised with prestigious awards including the 2021 BBC Sports Personality of the Year Helen Rollason Award.
Jen Beattie’s new contract: a fresh chapter for Arsenal’s resilient defender
Standing tall amidst the adversities that life has thrown at her, Jen Beattie has emerged victorious against cancer, and is set to continue wearing the Arsenal shirt with a renewed contract.

Jen’s journey: battling cancer while playing professional football
Beattie’s journey is one that echoes resilience and commitment to the sport she loves.

Diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2020, Beattie displayed formidable tenacity by continuing her professional football career while undergoing radiotherapy.

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Jennifer Beattie of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal 1st leg match between VfL Wolfsburg and Arsenal at Volkswagen Arena on April 23, 2023 in Wolfsburg, Germany. (Photo by Martin Rose/Getty Images)
WOLFSBURG, GERMANY – APRIL 23: Jennifer Beattie of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal 1st leg match between VfL Wolfsburg and Arsenal at Volkswagen Arena on April 23, 2023 in Wolfsburg, Germany. (Photo by Martin Rose/Getty Images)
Given the nature of her illness, it’s worth noting the monumental mental and physical strength required to perform at the top level in football while concurrently battling a life-threatening illness.

Now, with a clean bill of health, Beattie has re-signed with Arsenal, a place she calls home.

“I’m so happy to have signed a new contract,” said Beattie. “I’m happy here. I love the club. I love the group of people I work with – the players, the staff, everybody behind the team.”

The road ahead: strengthening Arsenal’s defence
Beattie has been a crucial component of Arsenal’s defence, scoring 32 goals in 157 appearances for the club.

As part of the deal, Beattie has committed to work closely with the club’s commercial and partnerships teams and will continue mentoring the academy players in the forthcoming season.

Standing tall: Recognition and respect
Recognising her strength and contributions on the pitch, Beattie was honoured with the Helen Rollason Award at the 2021 BBC Sports Personality of the Year event.

Despite the health challenges she faced, Beattie consistently performed at her peak, providing a robust defence for Arsenal and becoming a source of inspiration for many.

In Beattie’s own words, she is ready for what’s to come. After facing some of life’s toughest challenges, she’s excited to remain on the pitch, demonstrating her unyielding resilience once again.

As she steps into the new season with a fresh contract and renewed vigour, Beattie remains a beacon of courage and resilience for Arsenal and its legions of fans.