Renée Slegers has transformed Arsenal’s Women’s side as interim manager, delivering exceptional results. But is she the right choice for the permanent role?
DAGENHAM, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 20: Renee Slegers, Interim Manager of Arsenal claps after the Barclays Women's Super League match between West Ham United and Arsenal at Chigwell Construction Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Dagenham, England. (Photo by Jaimi Joy/Getty Images)
Photo by Jaimi Joy/Getty Images
Since taking over as interim manager following Jonas Eidevall’s departure, Renée Slegers has delivered exceptional results. Her record speaks for itself: 11 games, 10 wins, 1 draw, no losses, 31 goals scored, 5 conceded, and seven clean sheets. The team has produced numerous strong performances with only a few average displays.
Tactically, Slegers hasn’t introduced sweeping changes, as is typical for an interim coach, but there have been subtle adjustments. Defensively, the team remains well-organised, alternating between a mid-block and high press. Offensively, it’s clear the players have been granted more freedom, and focused work on finishing—led by Kelly Smith—has been fruitful.
BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 18: Alessia Russo of Arsenal scores her team's second goal past Ena Mahmutovic of Bayern Munich during the UEFA Women's Champions League match between Arsenal FC and FC Bayern München at Meadow Park on December 18, 2024 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Initially, Slegers took a conservative approach, stabilising the team and maintaining a consistent starting XI. In the latter stages, injuries, particularly in central midfield, forced her to rotate more, and her selections became more adventurous.
But does this mean the club will offer her the permanent role? Signs suggest they won’t.
In her last three press conferences—after Vålerenga, Liverpool, and Bayern—Slegers has dropped hints that her future lies elsewhere. When asked repeatedly if she wants the job full-time, she has avoided giving a definitive “yes.”
Ultimately, the decision depends on the club’s vision for the team’s playing style and the profile they want in a manager. Ideally, Arsenal should aim for a blend of Joe Montemurro’s attacking flair and Eidevall’s defensive solidity. Striking that balance is critical, as shown by Chelsea’s recent tactical shift under Sonia Bompastor.
A measured move toward more possession-based attacking football has significantly enhanced Chelsea’s chances in the Champions League.
Arsenal must select a manager capable of elevating the team to compete at the highest level in the Champions League knockouts and, ultimately, to win the competition. Wednesday’s victory against Bayern offered a glimpse of what is required: high-quality football, relentless intensity, rapid transitions, and compact defensive structures on both sides of the ball.
The players clearly enjoy working with Slegers and would likely welcome her appointment.
Whether the club sees her as the long-term solution, however, remains to be seen.
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