By Monica Clarke (22/9/26)
Above: Renee Slegers preparing her side for their UWCL opener Photo: Arsenal FC
Renee Slegers and Smilla Holmberg discuss Arsenal’s turn to focus on today’s
Champions League matchup with HB Køge after back to back draws in the WSL.
Slegers reflects on Arsenal’s two most recent performances in the WSL where Arsenal
struggled to create goals, drawing 0-0 against newly promoted Crystal Palace and 1-1 against Manchester United who had yet to collect any points in the WSL season so far until then.
“The way we progress onto the pitch is good, the way we dominate in many ways and get the ball forward is good. But then, of course, again, the final 3rd and the chances that we set up. So, we’ve looked at that again, and both from a tactical, psychological, technical perspective.”
“I think one positive takeaway is that mentality of the squad and the players on the pitch, the players that came on and made a difference, Smilla scoring the goal in a forcing face towards the end in the 94th minute, we take that with us from a resilience mentality perspective, but yeah, of course we want to score more goals.”
Slegers also spoke on the talent and depth within her squad this season and being “doubled up in every position”.
Especially in the context of Arsenal’s quick turn between Manchester United, HB Køge tomorrow and then Chelsea FC in the upcoming weekend.
Slegers discussed the importance of player freshness going into this busy season of football.
“We also have to make sure that players are fresh, and players deserve opportunities as well to play.”
Slegers was asked about her choices in remaining players fresh for upcoming games and rotation.
“We’re just looking at what we need in the game, what partnerships are strong, what
players are in form, where’s everyone at physically?”
With a total of eight new signings joining Arsenal’s squad going into this season, Holmberg, the 94th minute equalising goalscorer vs Manchester United discussed the player’s connection as the season has begun.
“All the new players coming are very great in the team, both off the pitch and on the pitch and I’ve enjoyed playing with everyone”
“I think all of us have such a belief in this team and what we can achieve this season”
Going into the match this week Arsenal have focused on “how can we set up our chances and how do we arrive in the box?”.
Slegers spoke on “expecting to face a low block” with “fast attacks and counter attacks” from the HB Køge squad.
“They will try to close down spaces we’re expecting, whether that’s a back four or back five.”
Holmberg will be playing her first League phase of the Champions League having joined
Arsenal in January last season.
“I know the Champions League campaign is something special and I love playing Champions League games so it will be exciting.”
Arsenal FC will face HB Køge at Meadow Park, Boreham Wood on Tuesday the 22nd of
September at 8pm BST.
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