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LEAH WILLIAMSON humorously shared her relief at not being responsible for selecting the next permanent manager of Arsenal Women’s team.
The argument for retaining interim head coach Renee Slegers gains momentum following the team’s Champions League revenge over Bayern Munich.
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Arsenal defender Williamson and her teammates came out ahead in their group after overcoming a 2-1 deficit to achieve a 3-2 victory over the German giants.
The win on Wednesday at Meadow Park marked Arsenal’s eighth straight victory under Slegers.
This success also brings their unbeaten run to 11 matches under the Netherlands native, just in time for the upcoming Christmas break at the start of the Women’s Super League winter hiatus.
On the topic of Slegers potentially getting the permanent role, Williamson remarked: “We have been focused on our matches, and I’m truly excited to come to work.
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“But I’m also very grateful that the decision isn’t mine to make or my responsibility!
“At the beginning of this phase (when Renee took over), we had two objectives, and we accomplished them both. It represents a positive progression for us; we aimed to top the group, and we did.”
Slegers has quickly become a beloved figure among Gunners supporters since stepping in during a turbulent start to the season.
A run of disappointing performances, including three winless games at the Emirates and defeats of 2-1 and 5-2 to Chelsea and Bayern respectively, led to former manager Jonas Eidevall’s resignation.
Since Slegers’ arrival in mid-October, the team has conceded just five goals in their last 11 outings.
Williamson is among those players who perceive a turnaround has taken place since then.
The England captain and defender stated: “When there isn’t a designated manager and an interim is leading, everyone begins to take more ownership, and every player has to step up.
“Everyone is contributing a bit more, and maybe that extra push is what we needed.
“You’ve witnessed a different aspect of our play because we as players have embraced greater responsibility.
“Renee has motivated us to be our true selves, allowing us to find a style that works for all of us, and we’ve really made the most of that.”
The draw to determine their opponent in the quarter-finals will be held on February 7.
Slegers is confident that her squad can take on any of their European competitors.
The interim Arsenal head coach asserted: “We possess a fantastic squad. We’ve faced many challenges over the past months and have often emerged positively.
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“The squad has shown resilience and tenacity, coupled with the quality of our players and our shared understanding on the field.
“I’m optimistic that we can accomplish great things, but we must also acknowledge the capability of our opponents.
“Many teams have the potential to achieve remarkable results. It presents a significant challenge.”
