Zachary Swanson

Zak Swanson joined the Arsenal academy in 2006, aged six, worked his way through the youth ranks and signed his first professional contract in April 2019. He stayed on Arsenal's senior books from 2020 to 2022 without making a first-team appearance.

The route out began with a loan to the Dutch side MVV Maastricht in August 2020, for the 2020–21 season. It did not last. Swanson made three appearances and was recalled in December 2020, with a lack of playing time and injury concerns behind the decision.

The move that settled his career came on 4 July 2022, when he signed permanently for Portsmouth on a two-year deal with an option for a further year. The fee was not disclosed. He has since played more than 100 times for the club and has scored several goals and provided assists along the way.

His best season came in 2023–24, when Portsmouth won the EFL League One title and gained promotion to the Championship. It remains the main honour of his career so far. His contract at Fratton Park runs until 30 June 2028.

Swanson was born in Cambridge and holds both English and American citizenship, which makes him eligible for either national team. He has not yet been capped at senior level by England or the United States.