Olivia Smith has spoken about her move to Arsenal after becoming the first women’s footballer to be signed for £1 million.
The Canadian international joined from Liverpool this summer in what at the time was a world record deal.
Despite the fee and spotlight that comes with it, Smith insists she is not letting the figure distract her.
“It is an honour and a privilege, but I am just focused on being on the pitch and learning from such a great group of players,” she told reporters at Arsenal’s training centre.
She held the world record for just over a month, before it was overtaken on Thursday by Orlando Pride’s signing of Lizbeth Ovalle for £1.1m.
Olivia Smith embracing pressure after £1m Arsenal move
At just 21, Olivia Smith has been making big moves in her career, including her former world record transfer to Arsenal.
She spent time with Sporting CP in Portugal before joining Liverpool, and now arrives at Arsenal with the expectation of being a key figure in Renee Slegers’ squad.
Far from being daunted, she views the record fee as recognition of her talent and ambition. “To come with such a hefty price tag for such a young player like me shows they see the potential I have and my mindset.
“I’m hungry, I’m driven, I want to learn, I want to grow and I want to win things.”
Earlier this week, Smith won the PFA’s Young Player of the Year award thanks to her performances at Liverpool last season.
Our maiden Canadian winner 🇨🇦
Olivia Smith made history when she captured the PFA Young Player of the Year Award last night 🏆@CANWNT | @ArsenalWFC pic.twitter.com/vexA9Ltal6
— PFA (@PFA) August 20, 2025
Smith also believes the rise in transfer fees is a positive step for the women’s game, showing how quickly its value is increasing. “It’s great to see the development of women’s football and that price going up as well. Honestly, it’s an honour to be part of that moment, but being here at Arsenal, I am focused on learning and growing every day.”
While her record was short-lived, Smith’s transfer remains a significant milestone. The fact that Ovalle’s deal quickly surpassed it highlights how fast the financial landscape of women’s football is changing.
In a recent interview with SheKicks, Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson, said that Smith could become football’s version of basketball star Caitlin Clark.
Wilkinson previously coached Smith during her time with Canada’s youth set-up.
What’s next for Smith and Arsenal?
For Arsenal, the signing is about more than just making history. It is a statement of intent as they chase silverware on multiple fronts. The Gunners will be aiming to close the gap on Chelsea in the WSL title race while also looking to make an impression in Europe after returning to the Champions League.
For Smith, it is a chance to grow among some of the best players in the league and prove why the club were willing to make such an investment in her future.
Arsenal kick off their WSL season against London City Lionesses on Saturday, September 6th.
