Arsenal's new strength in depth analysed as Sam Kerr marks Chelsea return with landmark 100th goal - The Counter Press

Arsenal's Women's Super League team has undergone a significant transformation under new head coach Renee Slegers, displaying a more intentional, resolute, and calculated style of play compared to the combustible nature of the Jonas Eidevall era. The team has shown remarkable resilience, coming from behind in both opening games to secure comfortable victories while scoring nine goals via seven different players.

Statistically, Arsenal under Slegers has been dominant, recording league highs in shots (20) and touches in the opposition box (66) in one game, and maintaining an expected goals (xG) performance nearly double that of any other team, including champions Chelsea. The squad's depth has emerged as a key strength, with six goal contributions already coming from substitutes (3 goals, 3 assists).

Slegers' tactical bravery has been evident in her lineup decisions, including starting teenage defender Katie Reid (the league's most progressive passer) in place of injured star Leah Williamson, and giving £1m-rated Olivia Smith her debut in front of a home crowd. The team has also shown improved late-game performance, scoring four times in the final 10 minutes of matches after managing only nine such goals throughout the entire previous season.