Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers has made it clear: her team is leaving nothing to chance as they push for a strong finish to the season and a coveted spot in next year's UEFA Women's Champions League.
Currently sitting third in the Barclays Women's Super League table, the Gunners hold a crucial two-point lead over fourth-placed Manchester United—and with two games in hand, their European destiny is firmly in their own hands.
Speaking ahead of this weekend's clash at Aston Villa, Slegers struck a determined tone. "We're going to do absolutely everything," she said. "It's our target to secure that Champions League spot for next year, and we've put that pressure on ourselves. But at the same time, we have to stay present and enjoy what we're building together—because this group will never be the same again. Players and staff will move on at the end of the season, so we want to cherish every moment and make the most of it."
Aston Villa, meanwhile, have been inconsistent lately, but Slegers expects a fired-up opponent. "It's their last home game of the season, so they'll want to finish strong in front of their own fans," she noted. "We'll have to be adaptable, but we're focused on our own game. When we're at our best, we're very good—so it's about getting our basics right, regardless of what they throw at us."
Reflecting on the season's highs and lows, Slegers highlighted the team's growth. "The way we've matured as a group, the humility we've shown, and our understanding that how we show up every day directly impacts long-term results—that's been key. The Leicester game is still fresh in my mind, and it was an important turning point for us."
With the finish line in sight, Arsenal are determined to end the campaign on a high note—and bring Champions League football back to the Emirates.
