Renee Slegers, the embattled manager of Arsenal Women, admitted after a 4-2 loss to Manchester City that her side are no longer in contention for this season's Women's Super League crown. The defeat, suffered at the Etihad Stadium, left Arsenal languishing in tenth place, a full ten points behind the league leaders, and has intensified scrutiny of Slegers' tactics and squad selection. Manchester City took the lead twice during the match, but Arsenal fought back each time, only for the Citizens to surge in the final stages and secure all three points. The win propelled City back to the top of the table just before the international break, while Arsenal’s second loss in the opening five fixtures marks their poorest start to a WSL campaign since 2014.
The setback follows a disappointing 2-2 draw against Paris FC in the Champions League, where Arsenal surrendered a two‑goal advantage late in the second half. That collapse added further pressure on the Dutch coach ahead of Sunday’s trip to Manchester, where Arsenal again squandered a two‑goal lead and left the capital without any points. "It is a tough result," Slegers told Sky Sports after the game.
"The first half was very even, both sides creating chances. In the second half we started well and scored a quality goal, but the opposition made three changes that gave them fresh energy, and one of those changes led directly to the goal. After that it became much harder for us.
It was a close contest between two strong teams, but we failed to find the margins we needed in the crucial moments. Conceding four goals is unacceptable, and we are not happy with that." She went on to acknowledge City’s dominance after their substitutions and reflected on the mental strain of a season that has felt like a series of near‑misses. "We have had many games where we thought we were in control and then lost it. That is mentally demanding.
It will be good for the players to go on international duty, get a fresh perspective and return with renewed energy for the next match." Slegers also signalled a comprehensive review of the club's approach. "There is a lot to examine – from our training programme to broader strategic issues. We will do everything we can to identify where we can improve.
At this moment, we are not part of the title conversation, no." Manchester City’s manager, Andree Jeglertz, offered a supportive comment, insisting Arsenal will bounce back. "It’s not about Arsenal being a bad team.
They are a great football side. They struggled early on, but they have quality. 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, broadened the discussion to the whole squad. "The pressure isn’t just on Slegers, it’s on the entire group. When you look at recent performances, especially against Chelsea, they showed enough intensity and purpose.
The players are clearly disappointed with today’s result. Being tenth in the table is far below the standards this club sets for itself. The draws against Palace and United have added to the mounting pressure. They still have a chance, but it will be an uphill battle from here." Former England international Izzy Christiansen also defended Slegers’ position, praising her leadership while highlighting areas that need attention.
"Renee Slegers should not have her job questioned. She is an outstanding coach, and the bond with the players is evident. However, the midfield still lacks balance.
Kyra Cooney‑Cross needs to become a constant presence, Georgia Stanway has yet to find her rhythm, and while Kim Little continues to perform, Slegers must make bold selection choices moving forward." Christiansen added that the title race appears to be shaping into a two‑horse contest between Chelsea and Manchester City, with Chelsea also enjoying a strong start. "Chelsea have played superb football, and they are a serious threat. The London City Lionesses will also have something to say, as they continue to improve week after week." In summary, Arsenal’s early season woes have sparked a call for introspection across all facets of the club – from tactical setups and training regimes to player morale and squad depth.
The upcoming international break offers a brief respite, but the Gunners will need to return with a clear plan to halt the slide, regain confidence, and re‑ignite any hope of challenging for the league title later in the season.