Renee Slegers, the embattled manager of Arsenal Women, conceded 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. City, having come from behind twice during the match, surged ahead in the latter stages to secure all three points and reclaim the top spot just before the international break.
The loss marks Arsenal’s second defeat in their opening five games, a start that can be described as their poorest in a WSL campaign since 2014. The result follows a 2-2 draw against Paris FC in the Champions League, where Arsenal squandered a two‑goal lead late in the second half. The combination of these setbacks has intensified scrutiny on Slegers, especially as her side entered the Manchester clash having already blown a lead earlier in the season. Speaking to Sky Sports after the City game, Slegers described the outcome as “tough”.
She noted that the first half was a back‑and‑forth battle between two teams with momentum, and that Arsenal began the second half strongly, scoring a quality goal. However, she observed that Manchester City’s three substitutions injected fresh energy, one of which directly led to their equalising goal.
"After that it became more difficult," Slegers said, adding that the match was evenly balanced but Arsenal failed to find the margins they needed in crucial moments. "We can’t concede four goals. We’re not happy with that." She went on to explain that City’s changes turned the game in their favour, making them dominant after the break. Slegers reflected on the mental strain of repeatedly feeling they have control of a match only to lose it, describing the situation as "pressing and demanding mentally".
She welcomed the upcoming international break, believing that a change of environment and fresh energy from national‑team duties could rejuvenate her squad. Looking ahead, Slegers emphasised the need for a thorough review of all aspects of the club’s operations – from training programmes to broader strategic elements. "There’s a lot to review. How we’ve been doing things, from all aspects.
Training programme, bigger things in the background. We’re going to do everything we can to see where we can be better," she asserted. She concluded with a blunt assessment: "At the moment we’re not in the (title) conversation, no." Manchester City’s manager, Andree Jeglertz, offered a contrasting perspective, expressing confidence that Arsenal will bounce back. "It’s not about Arsenal," Jeglertz said.
"They are a great football team. They had a struggle in the beginning, but it’s still a good football team.
There are a lot of good players. I’m pretty sure when we get to the spring they will definitely be up there fighting for the title. Nothing changes for them." Former Scotland international Rachel Corsie, appearing on Sky Sports, echoed the sentiment that pressure is affecting the whole squad, not just the coach.
She highlighted that Arsenal’s performances against Chelsea and in the recent match displayed sufficient intensity and purpose, but the disappointment was evident among the players. "They are under pressure because they are 10th in the table and that isn’t good enough for this team, this squad, the expectations they put on themselves because of the club they are," Corsie remarked.
She pointed to earlier draws with Palace and United as the beginning of mounting pressure, adding that while the team still has a chance, the road ahead will be an uphill battle. Former England international and pundit Izzy Christiansen defended Slegers’ position, stating that the coach’s job should not be in jeopardy. "She’s the head coach of Arsenal and she’s an outstanding coach and manager. I don’t think her position should be under any threat at all," Christiansen said, praising the cohesion between Slegers and the players.
She critiqued the midfield, suggesting that Kyra Cooney‑Cross needs to become a constant presence, while Georgia Stanway is still finding her footing despite her evident quality. Kim Little continues to perform, but Christiansen warned that Slegers will need to make brave selection decisions moving forward. Christiansen also observed that the title race appears to be shaping into a two‑horse contest between Chelsea and Manchester City, both of which have enjoyed superb starts to the season.
She hinted that London City Lionesses may also have something to say, noting their continued progress. In summary, Arsenal’s early season woes have placed Slegers under considerable pressure, with the manager acknowledging that the team is far from a title contender at this stage. The upcoming international break offers a chance for reflection and rejuvenation, while external voices from opponents and former players stress both the challenges and the potential for a resurgence. Arsenal will need to address tactical imbalances, especially in midfield, and find a way to convert dominance into decisive goals if they hope to climb the table and re‑enter the conversation for silverware later in the season.