Arsenal opened their WSL campaign with a 4-1 win over newly promoted London City Lionesses.
Here are the main takeaways:
1. Slegers’ bold calls pay off
Renée Slegers made surprising choices in her first official line-up of the season, with Katie Reid starting in place of the injured Leah Williamson, leaving Laia Codina and Lotte Wubben-Moy on the bench. It was a huge call to select an 18-year-old, but Reid repaid the faith. She conceded an early penalty with a mistimed tackle, yet recovered impressively, showing maturity in her duels, reading of the game and distribution.
2. Pelova gets the nod at 10
As suggested in pre-season, Victoria Pelova was selected ahead of Frida Maanum in the playmaker’s role. Pelova brings greater creativity, while Maanum is more of a second striker, known for her powerful shooting and well-timed penalty box runs.
3. Summer signings step up
In attack, Olivia Smith and Chloe Kelly started ahead of Caitlin Foord and Beth Mead. Smith, Arsenal’s record £1m signing, looked completely at ease, while Kelly, who had already bedded in during her loan spell, was lively throughout. Both delivered performances that underlined the staff’s confidence in their integration.
4. Selection signals in goal
Manuela Zinsberger was preferred as back-up goalkeeper, with Anneke Borbe left out of the squad altogether. Jenna Nighswonger was also absent, the only outfield player not in the matchday squad, which will be a concern for her prospects.
5. Smith shows her class
Smith justified her £1m fee with a superb display. She repeatedly unlocked a stubborn London City defence with direct running and shooting, coming close on several occasions. Her pace and ability to stretch defences already add a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.
6. Depth in attack
Arsenal’s attacking riches were on full display as Slegers changed her entire forward line in the second half. The substitutes, including Stina Blackstenius and Frida Maanum, maintained the tempo and quality, while Mariona Caldentey is another option who can slot into the front line when required.
7. Supporters step up
With 17,000 season ticket holders and a crowd of 38,142 at the Emirates, Arsenal’s support continues to set the standard. The club, alongside its official supporters’ group, has worked tirelessly to ensure that off-field organisation matches the team’s ambitions on it.
8. Lionesses look equipped to stay up
The Lionesses are not here to make up the numbers. Unlike previous promoted sides, they look capable of survival and more. Heavy investment under Michelle Kang has given them a squad strong enough to aim for the top six. Their manager, Jocelyn Precheur, spoke afterwards of his high standards and will demand a response after Saturday’s defeat.