Michelle Agyemang has returned to Arsenal to recover from her ACL injury, cutting short her loan spell at Brighton.
Brighton signed the England striker for a second year-long loan spell with the Seagulls in the summer.
She started in just five Women’s Super League games for Brighton this season, before she ruptured her ACL on England duty during a 3-0 win over Australia on October 28th.
Michelle Agyemang to continue ACL rehabilitation at Arsenal
Following her ACL injury, Brighton said they and Arsenal would work alongside the Lionesses to work together on a rehabilitation programme for Michelle Agyemang.
Brighton have now confirmed that Agyemang will continue her rehabilitation at Arsenal.
Seagulls head coach Dario Vidosic said: “It was a real privilege to welcome Michelle back in the summer and work with her for another season.
“Naturally, we’re disappointed that her second loan spell with the club has come to an end, but her rehab and mental well-being must remain the priority.
“For someone so young, her talent on the pitch and her strength of character off it are truly remarkable. She has been a leader within our squad, and we’re confident she’ll be back on the pitch very soon.”
Managing director of women’s and girls’ football, Zoe Johnson, added: “We’ll continue to keep in contact with Arsenal and support Michelle and her family during her recovery. Everyone at Brighton is behind her during this journey.”
Agyemang will jojn Arsenal and England teammate Katie Reid, who is also out with an ACL injury.
We can confirm that Michelle Agyemang has returned to Arsenal as she continues her recovery from an ACL injury.
Good luck in your recovery, Mich. 💙 pic.twitter.com/yAIRbFGLwf
— Brighton & Hove Albion Women (@BHAFCWomen) January 14, 2026
Injury hampers Agyemang’s progress
There was high excitement surrounding Agyemang after her heroics at Euro 2025 for England.
The 19-year-old became a super-sub for England, coming off the bench to score in wins over Sweden and Italy.
England went on to beat Spain in the final with Agyemang being named the Young Player of the Tournament.
She was also crowned the BBC’s Young Sports Personality of the Year and was on the list of nominees for the Kopa Trophy at the Ballon d’Or awards.
She was expected to have a big season at Brighton, however the injury means she will be likely out for the rest of the season.
How have Brighton coped without Agyemang?
Brighton, who finished fifth in the WSL last season, are currently eighth after their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at the weekend.
There has been speculation over the future of Fran Kirby, who has been linked with Juventus.
However, reportedly, Brighton have rejected three bids from Juventus for the former England international.
Brighton are yet to sign a replacement for Agyemang during the January transfer window.
The Seagulls, though, are one of three WSL clubs to be linked with prolific Nigerian striker Joy Omewa.
