Chelsea faces Arsenal: Renee Slegers cautious of Alyssa Thompson’s potential impact
Renee Slegers has indicated that Arsenal must be cautious of United States forward Alyssa Thompson when her team faces Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL).
Thompson has made an immediate impression at Chelsea since her transfer from Angel City, and she currently stands as the west London club’s leading scorer in the WSL this season with four goals.
Arsenal recognizes the talent she brings, as the USWNT forward netted her first WSL goal in the earlier match at the Emirates with a subtle lob.
“She has performed exceptionally well,” Slegers remarked about Thompson during a press conference on Friday.
“Naturally, she possesses her super strength — she’s incredibly fast, and with that speed, she can still create opportunities while maintaining control and balance.
“So she is a truly excellent player … has made a significant impact for Chelsea and has really showcased her abilities in the WSL. Therefore, we will need to keep an eye on her [on Saturday].
“We must discover the right strategies to contain her,” she added.
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The return of Thompson’s USWNT teammate Emily Fox, confirmed by Slegers, following a concussion injury will contribute positively. However, Slegers noted that Leah Williamson and Chloe Kelly will not be included in the squad.
Arsenal enters Saturday’s match four points behind Chelsea and a significant ten points behind leaders Manchester City. The Gunners’ domestic campaign faced another setback on Thursday, as they were eliminated from the League Cup by Manchester United.
The goalless draw against the same opponents earlier this month indicates they have shared points in three of their last five league matches.
While the Gunners last triumphed at Chelsea in 2018, Slegers believes that the encounter with the reigning champions could act as a catalyst for their season.
“The performances have been strong. Thus, we have confidence, and the players are playing with assurance in that regard, and I have faith in the players and their efforts,” she stated.
“So I think this is a favorable moment, and we always enjoy competing in these significant matches. The players rise to the challenge, and we understand the task ahead. We aim to win; we require points in some capacity. It clarifies what we want to achieve and pursue tomorrow.”
“Certainly, you want to build momentum; winning would be very beneficial for us. I believe that with everything the players have accomplished thus far, how they have returned, and our current position, even with the challenges … they have been outstanding,” she added.
“So yes, we are going for it, and if we succeed tomorrow, we will have earned it because of all the effort they have put in so far, which has been remarkable. So we are definitely going for it.”
