By Hope Robinson (24/1/25)
Above: Aston Villa manager Natalia Arroyo, coaching from the sidelines Photo: theguardian.com
Hope Robinson participated in Aston Villa’s press conference this week ahead of their Women’s Super League clash with Manchester United at Villa Park on Sunday, with Villa aiming to build on recent league form and United arriving off the back of a midweek cup victory.
Fixture Overview
Aston Villa host Manchester United on Sunday 25th January at Villa Park, with kick-off at 11:55am, in a Women’s Super League fixture that could have significant implications for the race behind the established top two.
United arrive in the West Midlands following their League Cup semi-final victory over Arsenal in midweek, a result that may provide confidence but also presents a physical challenge. Villa, by contrast, have had a full week to prepare. As Arroyo noted, “we did not play on Wednesday, they did play. They have more tired legs than us,” a factor Villa may look to exploit.
Both sides strengthened during the January transfer window. Villa added further quality in Jenna Nighswonger and Oriane Jean-François, while United’s recent recruits, including Lea Schüller, Hanna Lundkvist and Ellie Wangerheim, have already begun to make an impact in a United shirt.
Villa currently sits seventh in the WSL table on 16 points, with United two places above them on 22. While a title challenge appears unlikely for either side, the fixture represents an opportunity to gain ground in the battle for third and fourth.
Form Guide
Manchester United’s league form has dipped in recent weeks, with just one win from their last five WSL matches. Villa, meanwhile, have recorded two wins from their previous five league outings, showing signs of growing consistency under Arroyo as the season progresses.
Previous Meetings
The historical record between the sides favours United, who have won eight of the twelve previous meetings, with Villa claiming one victory and three matches ending in draws.
Earlier this season, however, Villa secured their first-ever WSL win over United, earning a 1–0 victory courtesy of a goal from midfielder Miri Taylor. That result offers belief heading into Saturday’s encounter and demonstrated Villa’s ability to compete with one of the league’s established contenders.
Team news
Villa will be without key players in Rachel Daly and Lucia Kendall. Arroyo confirmed that “they are not available” and stressed that fans should not expect Kendall’s return imminently, adding, “don’t expect her next week as well… we are not having them against Manchester United.”
There are also minor concerns elsewhere in the squad, with the Villa manager revealing that “some players [have been] a little ill the past few days,” though no further absences were confirmed.
Tactical Battle
Villa is likely to approach the game with a balance of pragmatism and bravery, particularly against a United side known for their intensity. Arroyo highlighted the importance of defensive control, explaining that “we need to dominate in the out of possession phase.”
In possession, Villa will look to remain confident without overexposing themselves, with Arroyo adding that her side must “keep being brave when we can but still being pragmatic.” How effectively Villa manages United’s pressing and energy levels may prove decisive.
Players to Watch
A significant milestone could be reached by Anna Patten, who marks her 100th appearance for the club. Arroyo praised the defender’s influence, describing the landmark as “what an achievement.”
Despite still being young, Patten’s leadership has been central to Villa’s development. “She was playing every minute for the whole year last season,” Arroyo said. “She leads us in possession and out of possession… she’s thinking, seeing, watching, leading, talking. She makes us really strong.” The Villa manager added that Patten is “setting a good tone for what the club wants to achieve.”
Young England youth internationals Georgia Mullett and Rachael Maltby have also impressed this season. Arroyo described both as “excellent professionals and excellent kids,” highlighting their adaptability and maturity. “How coachable they are is something you celebrate,” she said, adding that they “force themselves to play like a super senior.” Villa is planning with both players “for present and future,” with Arroyo confident they “will be two big names for the future.”
Strengths and Weaknesses
United’s physicality and intensity are well recognised, particularly in individual battles across the pitch. Arroyo noted that United “have energy in the duels,” but believes Villa can turn that to their advantage. “We can use the fact they are so energetic,” she explained.
Clinical finishing and defensive resilience will be key, with Villa needing to “fight for clearance” and ensure they are “really strong” in decisive moments.
Manager’s View
Arroyo’s focus extends beyond immediate results, with a clear emphasis on long-term development. Asked about what occupies her time away from match preparation, she spoke about building foundations across the club.
“Talking about methodology, how to engage fans, the pathway, [and] being one of the most exciting clubs in the WSL,” she said. “Building the future- you never see the future until it becomes present.” Arroyo stressed her long-term commitment, adding, “it’s not about what I need now, it’s about what Villa needs in the future.”
She also addressed upcoming changes to the League Cup format, following a question she was asked directly. While acknowledging the challenges, Arroyo was clear in her ambition. “We will try to use it as a positive,” she said, highlighting workload disparities between international players and others. “We want to be a trophy candidate and disrupt the top four.”
Key Matchday Battles
Control out of possession, physical duels in midfield, and efficiency in both penalty areas are likely to shape the contest. Villa’s ability to manage United’s intensity, while remaining brave in key moments, could determine whether they are able to repeat their success from earlier in the season and continue their push up the WSL table.
With home support behind them and a growing sense of belief under Natalia Arroyo, Aston Villa head into the fixture looking to test themselves against one of the league’s most dominant sides. If they can bring intensity, discipline and confidence in key moments, Villa have an opportunity to make Villa Park count and continue their steady progress in the Women’s Super League.
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