Arsenal’s manager, Renee Slegers, admitted that her side are no longer part of the title chase in this season’s Women’s Super League after a 4-2 loss to Manchester City that left the Gunners languishing in tenth place, a full ten points behind the league leaders. The defeat at the Etihad saw Arsenal take the lead twice, only for City to rally late in the game and secure all three points, propelling Andree Jeglertz’s side back to the top of the table as the international break approaches. The loss marks Arsenal’s second defeat in just five matches of the campaign, a start that is shaping up to be their poorest in a WSL season since 2014. The setback follows a 2-2 draw against Paris FC in the Champions League, a match in which Arsenal had been two goals ahead before collapsing in the latter stages of the second half.
That draw amplified the scrutiny on the Dutch coach ahead of Sunday’s trip to Manchester, where Arsenal again surrendered a lead and left the capital empty‑handed. In response, Slegers said she and her coaching staff will undertake a thorough review of the early‑season shortcomings during the upcoming international break.
"It is a tough result," she told Sky Sports. "The first half was a back‑and‑forth battle between two teams with momentum.
In the second half we started well, scored a good goal, but the opposition made three changes that brought fresh energy and one of those changes led to the goal." She continued, "After that it became more difficult. It was an even contest between two very good sides, but we failed to create the margins we needed in the crucial moments. Conceding four goals is unacceptable, and we are not happy with that.
After their substitutions, they dominated the game." Slegers reflected on the mental strain of the season, noting, "We have had many games where we felt we were in control and then lost it. It’s mentally demanding. It’s good that the players now have a break to join their national teams, get a fresh burst of energy, and return to a different environment.
When they come back we will have the next match to prepare for." She promised a comprehensive analysis of all aspects of the club’s operation, from training programmes to broader organisational issues. "There is a lot to review – how we have been doing things, from every angle. We will do everything we can to identify where we can improve.
At the moment we are not in the title conversation, no." Manchester City’s manager, Andree Jeglertz, offered a supportive view of Arsenal’s situation, saying, "It’s not about Arsenal. They are a great football team. They struggled early on, but they remain a good side with many quality players. I am confident that by spring they will be back in the title race.
Nothing fundamental has changed for them." Former Scotland international Rachel Corsie, speaking on Sky Sports, highlighted the pressure on the entire squad rather than solely on Slegers. "When you look at performances, I would say today and against Chelsea they played with enough intensity and purpose. You can see the disappointment on the players’ faces after today’s result.
Being tenth in the table is not good enough for a club of this stature and the expectations they set for themselves. The draws against Palace and United have contributed to mounting pressure. They still have enough quality, it’s not over, but it will be an uphill battle from here." Sky Sports analyst Izzy Christiansen defended Slegers’ position, stating, "I don’t think Renee Slegers’ situation should change.
She is the head coach of Arsenal and an outstanding manager. Her job should not be under threat. The cohesion between her and the players is clear." Christiansen also critiqued the midfield, suggesting that Kyra Cooney‑Cross needs to become a constant presence, while Georgia Stanway is still finding her footing despite obvious talent, and Kim Little continues to perform reliably. She added, "Renee Slegers will need to be bold with her selections moving forward." Looking ahead, Christiansen predicted a two‑horse race for the title between Chelsea and Manchester City, noting Chelsea’s superb start and consistent football.
She also mentioned that London City Lionesses are likely to make their presence felt as they continue to grow stronger. Overall, Arsenal’s early season woes have sparked calls for introspection and tactical adjustments.
The upcoming international break will give the coaching staff a chance to dissect the issues, while the players’ time with their national teams could provide a mental reset. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see whether Slegers can steer the Gunners back on course before the title race solidifies around the league’s front‑runners.