Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal Women have confirmed that 18-year-old midfielder Laila Harbert has joined National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side Portland Thorns FC on loan until January 2026.
The move represents a major step in the development of the highly rated England youth international, offering her valuable experience in one of the world’s most competitive women’s leagues.
A product of Arsenal’s academy since the age of nine, Harbert signed her first professional contract with the Gunners in January 2025. The versatile midfielder, capable of operating as both a deep-lying playmaker and a defensive midfielder, has already made two senior appearances for the club, including a substitute role in a 2-1 pre-season victory over the Washington Spirit in 2024.
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Last season, Harbert gained her first consistent senior football experience with a loan spell at Southampton in the Barclays Women’s Championship, starting eight of nine matches during the second half of the 2024/25 campaign. She also spent time with Watford in the 2023/24 season under a dual-registration agreement, making 14 appearances.
Arsenal - Laila Harbert
Laila Harbert (Image credit: Getty Images)
The Thorns, currently fifth in the NWSL and chasing a playoff berth, hailed Harbert’s arrival on their official website. The midfielder has an impressive record on the international stage, having captained England’s U17 side to their first-ever UEFA European Championship final in 2024 and a fourth-place finish at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
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She also featured prominently at the 2024 U19 Women’s European Championship, helping secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
Arsenal expressed their support for the move, stating: “We wish Laila the best of luck for this next stage in her development.” The loan will see Harbert work under English coach and Arsenal supporter Rob Gale, whose reputation for nurturing young talent aligns with Arsenal’s development strategy.
The deal, subject to standard regulatory approval, will allow Harbert to feature in Portland’s remaining nine regular-season matches as they push for a postseason spot.
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