Taylor Hinds has completed a move back to Arsenal Women, marking a return to the club where her career began. The 26-year-old full-back joins the Gunners on a free transfer following the expiration of her contract with Liverpool.
Hinds' journey with Arsenal started at the age of 11 when she joined the club's academy in 2010. She progressed through the youth ranks, showcasing her versatility as a player capable of playing both as a full-back and in midfield. Her talent and hard work led to her first-team debut in October 2017, during a League Cup match against London Bees.
In January 2018, Hinds made a permanent move to Everton, seeking more consistent playing time. She made 30 appearances for the Toffees before joining Liverpool in July 2020. At Liverpool, Hinds became an integral part of the team, contributing significantly to their FA Women's Championship title win in the 2021/22 season. By 2023, she was named vice-captain, demonstrating her leadership qualities. During her five seasons with Liverpool, Hinds made 131 appearances and scored eight goals.
Hinds' performances have also earned her recognition on the international stage. She represented England at the U17 and U20 FIFA World Cups in 2016 and 2018, respectively. In October 2024, she received her first call-up to the Jamaica squad, making her debut in a friendly against France.
"I'm so proud to have signed for Arsenal," Hinds said. "I want to push, compete, and be winning trophies – and this club encompasses all of that. You can see what direction Arsenal is going in, and everyone at the club wants to win." She also acknowledged the significance of returning to her former club, stating, "This is a full-circle moment for me, and I'm grateful to come back to a place I called home when I was younger. I can't wait to get started and to step out on the pitch at Emirates Stadium in front of all our incredible supporters."
Arsenal's head coach, Renée Slegers, expressed her delight at Hinds' return, highlighting her experience and versatility. "We're delighted to welcome Taylor back to Arsenal," Slegers said. "She's a versatile player who has great experience from multiple seasons in the WSL with Liverpool, where she took on a leadership role." Slegers added, "I'm excited to get started with Taylor on the training pitch, and I'm sure our supporters will join me in welcoming Taylor back to the club."
Director of Women's Football Clare Wheatley echoed Slegers' sentiments, emphasizing Hinds' qualities and experience. "Everybody at Arsenal is thrilled to welcome Taylor back to the club where she spent several years at the start of her career," Wheatley said. "She is a player with great quality and vast experience of top-level football and will be an excellent addition to our group as we aim to compete on multiple fronts next season." Hinds will wear the number 24 jersey for Arsenal.
The signing of Taylor Hinds marks Arsenal's second major move of the summer transfer window, following the arrival of Lionesses star Chloe Kelly. Hinds' return is viewed as a strategic boost, providing squad depth and experience as Arsenal aims to compete for domestic and European titles.