Slegers relishing Champions League title defence with Arsenal
Arsenal kick off their Champions League title defence at home to Lyon on Tuesday, as they bid to retain their European crown.
Arsenal begin their Champions League defence on Tuesday as they host Lyon, and Renee Slegers is relishing the opportunity to return to the "biggest stage in Europe".
The Dutch head coach, who led Arsenal to only their second Champions League title in their decorated history last term, has overseen a mixed start to the season, with the Gunners sitting fifth in the Women's Super League (W2 D2 L1).
Arsenal defeated Barcelona in the final of last season's edition of the Champions League, registering a 1-0 win thanks to a second-half goal from Stina Blackstenius.
The Gunners remain the only English side to have won Europe's premier competition, having done so for the first time since 2006-07.
“Yeah, very excited, but it all starts over again,” Slegers said ahead of the clash with eight-time European champions Lyon.
“We're proud of last year, but everyone starts fresh and teams evolve constantly. Tomorrow we face a very strong opponent. They’ve made a lot of changes too, including a new coach, so we’re extremely humble but also looking forward to it.”
Arsenal hammered Lyon 4-1 during their previous meeting, in last season's Champions League semi-finals.
“Preparation always starts with us — our squad, our development — then we study the opposition. A few months have passed, and they still have similar players, so that’s important to consider. But our focus is always high-level preparation, regardless of the competition or opponent.
“The Champions League is special—it’s the biggest stage in Europe. You can play in the WSL every year, but you have to qualify for this.”
Slegers also confirmed that Arsenal vice-captain Leah Williamson is set to return before Christmas following a knee injury that has sidelined her since the start of the season.
“Everything is going forward as expected,” Slegers said.
“We hope to have her back before the winter break. Somewhere in November or December she might be back in full training. It’s day-to-day, week-to-week.”
