Bermuda legend Shaun Goater will play a pivotal role in the dugout as Aston Villa Women prepare for a blockbuster Adobe Women’s FA Cup fourth-round tie against Arsenal.
Goater, who currently serves as the club’s Assistant Coach, will help lead the Villans into their first cup match of the 2025/26 campaign after the draw paired two of the Women’s Super League’s heavyweights.
The draw, conducted on Monday evening, confirmed that Villa will kick off their quest for cup glory away from home in the new year. It represents a significant test for Goater’s side, who will be looking to upset a 14-time winning Arsenal squad on their own turf.
Goater is no stranger to the high-pressure environment of the top flight, having previously served as interim manager for Villa and as part of the coaching staff at Manchester City Women. His experience will be vital as Villa look to balance their league ambitions with a deep run in the world’s most famous knockout competition.
The high-stakes encounter is scheduled to take place on the weekend of Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 January 2026.
While the exact kick-off time and venue are yet to be finalised, both clubs have confirmed that further fixture details and ticket information will be released in due course. Winners of the fourth-round ties are set to receive £54,000 in prize money as the competition narrows down to the final 16 clubs.
