After a tumultuous start to the season, Arsenal’s women’s team has experienced a remarkable turnaround under the guidance of interim manager Renee Slegers. Just a month ago, they were struggling in both the Women’s Super League and the Women’s Champions League, facing heavy defeats and dwindling confidence. However, with six wins in seven matches since Slegers took charge, the Gunners are now not only competing for league success but also advancing to the quarter-finals of Europe.
The departure of former manager Jonas Eidevall came after a particularly challenging stretch that included a significant loss to Bayern Munich and a defeat to Chelsea. These setbacks left the team’s morale low and criticism mounting. Slegers, who had served as Eidevall’s assistant, stepped in and immediately revitalized the squad with an impressive 4-1 victory over Valerenga in her first match.
“The team is creating something special together where everyone is responsible and everyone feels the benefit,” Slegers noted before the match against Juventus, hinting at an evolving team dynamic.
As Arsenal secured their place in the European quarter-finals by beating Juventus 1-0, it became evident that Slegers' leadership was yielding results. The team has won three consecutive European matches and is poised for further success as they join Chelsea and Manchester City in the knockout stages.
The renewed vigor within the squad has not gone unnoticed. Former Arsenal defender Anita Asante remarked that the players appear reinvigorated under Slegers’ direction. Defender Emily Fox emphasized that recent performances have fostered confidence and unity among teammates.
“Renee brings a lot of confidence… with clarity and also freedom,” Fox shared, highlighting Slegers' impact on the team’s mentality.
As discussions about Slegers potentially becoming the permanent manager continue, her ability to create a competitive environment has strengthened her candidacy. While Arsenal is still considering their options for a long-term successor, there is no denying that Slegers has positioned herself favorably for consideration.
With their final group game against Bayern Munich approaching, questions remain about Slegers' future in charge. She has been reticent about discussing her long-term plans but remains focused on achieving immediate goals. Regardless of who ultimately takes over as head coach, Arsenal’s recent resurgence signals that they are no longer lagging behind their rivals but are instead building momentum toward fulfilling their potential in both domestic and European competitions.
As they look forward to upcoming challenges, one thing is clear: this Arsenal side is ready to reclaim its place among Europe’s elite teams once more.
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