Aston Villa Women are set to begin the new WSL season without Rachel Maltby after the defender joined England for the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
Maltby was named in Lydia Bedford’s 21-player England squad for the tournament, which begins on Saturday when the Young Lionesses face Canada.
That clash falls on the same day as Villa’s WSL opener away to Chelsea, meaning Natalia Arroyo is expected to be without one of last season’s breakthrough performers.
Rachel Maltby set to miss Aston Villa Women opener
Maltby made 16 WSL appearances last season, including 11 starts, after establishing herself as one of the brighter young players in Villa’s squad.
The 19-year-old has predominantly operated at left wing-back and the WSL’s own Fantasy preview identified her as a player expected to become Villa’s first-choice option in that role.
However, the same preview warns supporters against selecting Maltby during the opening weeks because of her involvement with England at the World Cup.
Her absence gives Arroyo an immediate selection decision before facing Chelsea.
Villa have significantly rebuilt their squad this summer, with six signings arriving ahead of the new campaign, but Maltby’s development remains another important part of the longer-term project.
The defender has now spoken about the pride of receiving her World Cup opportunity, with Villa publishing a fresh interview ahead of England’s opening game.
England team-mates have also described Maltby as someone whose work rate is unmatched and a player who sets standards within the group.
Villa must reshuffle against Chelsea
Saturday already represents a demanding opening assignment.
Villa travel to Stamford Bridge to face the defending champions, with our Chelsea Women v Aston Villa Women TV guide covering how supporters can watch the match.
Maltby’s absence removes one of Arroyo’s natural wide options.
It should only be temporary, but the World Cup could keep her away from domestic action for several weeks if England progress deep into the tournament.
For Maltby, the international opportunity is another significant step in a rapid rise.
For Villa, it creates an immediate problem to solve before the new WSL season has even begun.
