SAN DIEGO, Calif. — San Diego Wave FC has continued investing in its future, announcing the signing of highly regarded English midfielder Laila Harbert from Arsenal FC on a contract that will keep her with the club through the 2029 NWSL season.
At just 19 years old, Harbert arrives in San Diego after progressing through Arsenal’s renowned academy and already gaining valuable experience in both England and the United States.
“We’re really excited to welcome Laila to San Diego,” Sporting Director and General Manager Camille Ashton said in the club’s announcement. “She’s an exciting young talent with exceptional technical quality, vision, and composure under pressure.”
From Arsenal Academy to the NWSL
Harbert joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of nine before signing her first professional contract with the London club in 2025.
She has since built experience across multiple levels of English football, including loan spells with Everton in the Women’s Super League and Southampton and Watford in the second division.
While many American fans may be seeing her for the first time, Harbert is no stranger to the NWSL. During the second half of the 2025 season, she spent time on loan with the Portland Thorns, making five regular-season appearances and gaining valuable experience in one of the world’s most competitive women’s leagues.
Now, she’ll return to the United States with a permanent opportunity to establish herself.
International Pedigree
Harbert also brings an impressive résumé on the international stage.
She has represented England at multiple youth levels, most recently helping the England U-19 Women’s National Team qualify for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after starting every match during the qualification campaign.
The midfielder was also part of England’s U-23 side that captured the Women’s U-23 European Friendly Finals in 2025 and previously captained the U-17 Lionesses to their first-ever UEFA Women’s Under-17 Championship Final in 2024.
Her leadership and experience at the youth international level have made her one of England’s most promising midfield prospects.
Building for the Future
San Diego Wave’s acquisition reflects the club’s continued commitment to adding young, high-upside talent capable of contributing both immediately and in the years ahead.
Known for her technical ability, passing range, and composure in possession, Harbert adds another versatile option in midfield as the Wave continue building a roster designed to compete for championships.
With a contract running through 2029, San Diego is betting that one of England’s brightest young talents can become a cornerstone of the club’s future.
Player Profile
- Name: Laila Harbert
- Position: Midfielder
- Age: 19
- Height: 5-foot-5
- Nationality: England
- Previous Club: Arsenal FC
- Contract: Through the 2029 NWSL season
