Arsenal Women have confirmed the departure of defender Jenna Nighswonger, with the United States international completing a permanent move to Bay FC.
The NWSL side announced on Monday that they had acquired the 25-year-old from Arsenal for an undisclosed transfer fee, with Nighswonger signing a contract through to 2028.
The move brings an end to Nighswonger’s two-season spell playing in England’s Women’s Super League after she returned to the United States to begin the next chapter of her career.
Nighswonger joined Arsenal in January 2025 from Gotham FC after making 46 regular-season appearances in the NWSL.
She arrived in London as an established player in the United States and was part of the Arsenal squad that went on to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League later that year.
However, opportunities were limited during her time with the Gunners, with Nighswonger making five appearances for the club.
She subsequently spent the second half of the 2025/26 WSL season on loan at Aston Villa, where she became a regular part of Natalia Arroyo’s side.
Nighswonger made eight appearances for Villa, including five starts, and provided one assist during her time in Birmingham.
She will now return to the NWSL with Bay FC, joining a club that believes her experience at both domestic and international level can make a significant difference.
Bay FC head coach Emma Coates praised Nighswonger’s qualities following the completion of the deal, highlighting her ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch as well as her football intelligence and character.
Nighswonger also expressed her excitement at returning to the United States and believes Bay FC have the potential to achieve something special.
The defender arrives with an impressive collection of honours despite being only 25.
She won the NWSL Championship with Gotham FC in 2023, when she was also named NWSL Rookie of the Year, before earning Best XI recognition during her time in the league.
Nighswonger was also part of the United States team that won Olympic gold at the Paris 2024 Games.
She additionally helped her country win the SheBelieves Cup and Concacaf W Gold Cup in 2024.
Her departure represents another change to Arsenal Women’s squad as the club continues to shape its group for the new season.
For Nighswonger, the move provides an opportunity to return to a league where she previously enjoyed significant success.
Bay FC have secured her services through 2028, with the transfer fee remaining undisclosed.