Arsenal have strengthened their attack for the new campaign by signing Hoffenheim forward Selina Cerci on a free transfer. The Germany international joins the Women’s Super League club on a two-year contract, which includes an option for an extra season, and arrives after an impressive spell in the Frauen-Bundesliga.
Cerci has spent the whole of a senior career in Germany’s top division, featuring for Werder Bremen, Turbine Potsdam, Koln and most recently Hoffenheim. The 26-year-old now moves to North London as Arsenal continue to reshape the squad following several departures and arrivals this summer.
The forward enjoyed a prolific run at Hoffenheim after joining from Koln, overcoming an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in March 2022. That setback forced Cerci to miss the Women’s Euros in 2022 and the Women’s World Cup in 2023, but the attacker has since rebuilt form and confidence in the Frauen-Bundesliga.
During league action with Hoffenheim, Cerci produced 44 goal contributions in 43 games, scoring 32 times and providing 12 assists. Those numbers underline the type of penalty-box threat and creativity Arsenal are seeking as the club aims to challenge in the Women’s Super League and in Europe.
Last season Cerci struck 16 league goals as Hoffenheim finished fourth in the Frauen-Bundesliga. That position left the team just short of a place in the second qualifying round of the Women’s Champions League. Cerci also contributed nine assists in the 2025-26 campaign, highlighting influence beyond simple finishing.
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Only Klara Buhl, with 14 assists, recorded more in the German top flight during 2025-26 than Cerci. The tally of nine assists matched new Arsenal midfielder Georgia Stanway, who completed a transfer from Bayern Munich to North London a week earlier. Their link-up could become central to Arsenal’s attacking structure.
Cerci explained the decision to join Arsenal and spoke about the attraction of the Women’s Super League and Emirates Stadium. “I’m very excited to be here – it’s a big honour to play for Arsenal and I can’t wait to start,” Cerci told the club’s official website. “This is an opportunity to compete against and play alongside top players in one of the best leagues in the world. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and walking out at Emirates Stadium in front of all our supporters.”
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The move also addresses a key vacancy in Arsenal’s forward line after Beth Mead left for Women’s Super League champions Manchester City earlier in the summer window. Cerci’s arrival gives head coach Renee Slegers another option who can operate across the attacking line and contribute in pressing and link play.
Arsenal boss Renee Slegers outlined the qualities that made Cerci a target for the club. "I'm so pleased that Selina will be joining our group," Arsenal boss Renee Slegers said of Cerci's arrival. "She has impressive goalscoring numbers and brings good presence, physicality and forward intent. Combined with her strong work ethic, we feel these qualities make her a great addition to our squad."
Cerci now prepares for a first season outside the Frauen-Bundesliga, with Arsenal expecting the forward to adapt quickly to the pace of the Women’s Super League. The transfer adds proven goal output and experience to the squad as Arsenal seek to compete domestically and push for qualification in future European campaigns.
Story first published: Monday, July 6, 2026, 23:47 [IST]
