Interim manager Renee Slegers says Arsenal have what it takes to go all the way in the UEFA Women's Champions League after finishing top of their group on Wednesday.
Arsenal left it late for him won 3-2 against Bayern Munich while Mariona Caldentey converted from the spot to send the side top of their group standings.
Speaking after the win at Meadow Park, Slegers said: “The girls were very focused today with all the scenarios they had to deal with, the goals being scored, us leading, them coming back, the weather conditions. I was really impressed. how the girls stayed composed and focused on the task.
“It wasn't always the most beautiful football, but it was difficult to play beautiful football today,” admitted Slegers. “I'm happy that we found a way to win when the situation doesn't allow us to play our game and we have to respect our opponent, but we found a way to win. It shows great mental strength within the team.”
Despite trailing 2-1 going into the final third, the Gunners came from behind thanks to goals from Alessia Russo and Caldentey. Although Arsenal were chasing, Slegers said she knew the momentum would turn in their favour.
“There was even more confidence that we had momentum and fresh players and I think the players felt that,” she explained. “The players talked about it, so their minds were set on that, to stay in the game regardless of the scenario or the situation, and they did that well today.”
After topping the group, Arsenal will now face either Real Madrid opponents VfL Wolfsburg or Women's Super League (WSL) Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-finals.
“It was most important for us to keep winning, that was the main goal”, emphasized Slegers. “If we look at the eight teams that go through to the quarter-finals, they are all very good teams. Women's football is growing so much that there is more quality distribution and more teams. Either way it will be a big challenge.”
Arsenal fans have been in a wonderland since Slegers took over in the interim role but have yet to taste 11 consecutive defeats. Slegers spoke of how she has found the experience of being in charge in north London “very intense”.
“It's a big club with big players, big players, big resources and big facilities,” she added. “There's already been such a great foundation but I've learned a lot about what this role is at a big club like Arsenal. I've enjoyed it, I've enjoyed working with the players and the staff. It's been a very good period. I'm happy for the team that we got this result”.
The club confirmed this month that Slegers will remain as interim manager until Christmas. Slegers provided some clarity on her future as fans call for her permanent appointment.
“We had two goals from this block, to be within striking distance in the WSL and we moved up a point,” she said. “Also to qualify for the quarter-finals and, if we can, win the group, so we are successful with both, which is very strong. It has been very intense with many challenges to overcome as a team, we just need a break and I'm sure I will have communication with the club, but I also want to have a break”.
The Dutch coach confirmed she will “return to Sweden and the Netherlands” for a well-deserved break this Christmas.