Renee Slegers sends passionate message to Arsenal players ahead of Lyon tie
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Arsenal Women’s head coach Renee Slegers has delivered a powerful and passionate message to her players ahead of their decisive UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final second leg against eight-time winners Lyon.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Slegers acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge her side faces on Sunday at the Parc des Princes, as they look to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit. But her tone was one of cautious optimism, grounded in belief and preparation.
“We believe that we can expose them,” Slegers said. “But we are humble because we know there is a lot of threat from Lyon and what they can create.”
While Lyon’s threat in transition was a key point of discussion, Slegers stressed that Arsenal had identified areas to exploit, giving her side confidence heading into the crucial clash. Drawing parallels with other high-stakes fixtures, she praised her team’s ability to adapt and settle into the rhythm of the first leg.
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“We are super humble for the task; they probably have a next level in them, but so do we,” she continued. “There is a balance of us being very humble and very aware of what we are going to face, but also a big belief because we think we can do something on Sunday.”
Renee Slegers also addressed tactical considerations, referencing former Arsenal manager Joe Montemurro’s post-match comments about possibly allowing Lyon more of the ball and focusing on winning second phases. While she acknowledged the strength of Lyon in transition, she reiterated her focus on her team’s own quality.
“We believe in ourselves, so we want to bring to the game what we want to bring,” she said. “When we are good on the ball, they won’t get the chance to do what they are good at. We want to focus on ourselves and are very aware of their threat.”
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Sunday’s tie promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of the most decorated teams in women’s football. Lyon’s pedigree is undeniable, but Arsenal have shown they’re no strangers to big European comebacks.
Most recently, the Gunners stunned Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, overturning a 2-0 first-leg loss at the Santiago Bernabéu with a commanding 3-0 win at the Emirates Stadium. That result secured their place in the semi-finals and served as a statement of intent.
Now, under Slegers’ calm yet fearless leadership, Arsenal are hoping to summon that same fighting spirit and tactical sharpness to book a spot in the final.
“We’re ready,” Renee Slegers concluded. “We believe in what we’re building — and now it’s time to show it.”
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