After a tumultuous spell at Arsenal, U.S. women’s national team fullback Jenna Nighswonger has joined Aston Villa on loan.
The loan will run through the end of the season, with the Birmingham club also having an option to buy the 25-year-old.
Nighswonger has made just six appearances for the Gunners after arriving from Gotham FC in January 2025, playing only once this season.
Despite the lack of minutes since joining the reigning Women’s Champions League winners, Aston Villa is excited about the prospect of Nighswonger joining its project.
‘Everyone at Aston Villa is extremely excited to welcome Jenna to the club,’ said Director of Women’s Football Marisa Ewers.
‘We have been tracking her for some time and are delighted that she has bought into our exciting project.
‘This signing forms part of our growing ambitions as we continue to build an exciting and competitive squad, and we believe Jenna will add real quality to the group and support our goals moving forward.’
Currently, the Villans sit in sixth place in the WSL standings, accumulating 16 points across 12 matches.
For Nighswonger, this move could help her potentially return to the USWNT squad, where she has not featured since February 2025.