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LEAH WILLIAMSON humorously conveyed her satisfaction at not having to decide who will become the next permanent manager for Arsenal Women’s team.
The argument for retaining interim head coach Renee Slegers continues to gain traction following the team’s Champions League revenge against Bayern Munich.
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Arsenal defender Williamson and her teammates topped their group after overcoming a 2-1 deficit to triumph over the German giants 3-2.
The victory on Wednesday at Meadow Park marked Arsenal’s eighth consecutive win under Slegers.
This result also extended their unbeaten streak under the Netherlands native to 11 matches, just in time for the Christmas break with the onset of the Women’s Super League winter hiatus.
On the topic of Slegers’ potential permanent appointment, Williamson stated: “We have been concentrating on our performances, and I’m genuinely pleased to come into work.
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“But I’m also really happy it isn’t my decision or my responsibility!
“At the beginning of this period (once Renee arrived), we set two objectives that we achieved. It is a positive development for us; we aimed to win the group, and we did.”
Slegers has become a beloved figure among Gunners fans since taking the helm after a shaky start to the season for the team.
A series of subpar performances, including three winless games at the Emirates and losses of 2-1 and 5-2 against Chelsea and Bayern respectively, prompted former manager Jonas Eidevall to step down.
Since Slegers took over in mid-October, the team has conceded only five goals in their last 11 matches.
Williamson is among those who believe there has been a notable shift in momentum since then.
The England captain and defender remarked: “When there isn’t a designated manager and an interim is directing, everyone becomes more accountable, and each player needs to elevate their game.
“Everyone is contributing a bit more, and perhaps we needed that extra push.
“You’ve seen a different side of us because we as players have taken on more responsibility.
“Renee has motivated everyone to be true to themselves, allowing us to find a method that fits everybody, and we’ve thrived on that.”
Having finished at the top of Group C in the Champions League, the Gunners are poised to encounter either Manchester City, Real Madrid, or Wolfsburg in the quarter-finals.
The draw to establish their quarter-final opponent will take place on February 7.
Slegers is optimistic that her team can prevail against any of their European challengers.
The interim Arsenal head coach asserted: “We have a fantastic squad. We’ve faced various challenges over the past months and have frequently come through positively.
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“The squad has shown resilience and determination, combined with our players’ quality and our collective understanding on the pitch.
“I’m confident that we can achieve significant success, but we must also respect our opponents’ strengths.
“Many teams have the potential to accomplish remarkable feats. It presents a considerable challenge.”
