Arsenal centre-back Amanda Illestedt has announced that she is pregnant with her first child.
Arsenal confirmed she would take part in “light training activities” but would “not be able to take part in selection until after giving birth”.
A statement on the club's website said: “We are delighted to share the exciting news that Amanda Illestedt is pregnant with her first child.”
“Amanda is doing well and we are fully supporting her through this new and exciting journey.”
Illestedt has made 12 appearances in the Women's Super League this season, but has not featured for the Gunners since the 2-1 loss to West Ham on February 4.
Arsenal are third in the WSL, three points behind leaders Chelsea, who play at Stamford Bridge on Friday.
The club added: “Amanda will continue to stay in close contact with the medical team as her pregnancy progresses, but from now on she will not be able to participate in selection until after giving birth.''
“Everyone at Arsenal would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Amanda and her partner Reiner ahead of their new signings.”
Players in the top two tiers of English women's football will receive full pay for the first 14 weeks of maternity leave, after which they will be paid the statutory wage following an agreement in January 2022.
Chelsea manager Emma Hayes said. WSL clubs need to do more To help players with babies.
west ham captain Dagny Brynjarsdóttir She gave birth to her second son last month and is on maternity leave. “Incredible” movie The film, released earlier this month, shows her pregnancy process and the challenges she faced as an elite soccer player.
