Renee Slegers has been named Arsenal’s permanent head coach following a remarkable stint as interim manager.
The 35-year-old Dutch coach stepped in temporarily after Jonas Eidevall resigned in October due to Arsenal’s poor start in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Under Slegers’ guidance, the Gunners have flourished, winning 10 games and drawing one, scoring 31 goals while conceding just five. Her leadership also propelled Arsenal to the Women’s Champions League quarter-finals as Group C winners, thanks to five consecutive victories.
Slegers has signed a contract that extends through the 2025-26 season, solidifying her future with the club.
Slegers Reacts to Permanent Role
“I’m thrilled to continue this journey with Arsenal,” said Slegers. “It’s an incredible honor to represent this club as head coach, and I truly believe in what we can achieve together.
“Over the past months, there’s been a strong sense of collective responsibility among the players and staff—that has been our greatest strength. I’m committed to fostering that spirit as we move forward.”
Arsenal Leadership Backs Slegers
Arsenal’s director of women’s football, Clare Wheatley, praised Slegers as the “standout candidate” during the club’s extensive managerial search.
“Renee understands Arsenal’s values and ambitions,” said Wheatley. “We are confident she’s the right person to lead us as we aim for trophies this season and beyond.”
The club reportedly considered several candidates, including former Manchester City manager Nick Cushing, who ruled himself out in November, and ex-Manchester United head coach Casey Stoney, who was recently appointed as Canada’s manager.
Who Is Renee Slegers?
Slegers brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach. A former Netherlands international with 55 caps and 15 goals, she was part of the squad that reached the Euro 2009 semi-finals.
Her club career included stints at Willem II in the Netherlands and Swedish teams Djurgårdens and Linköping, before a severe knee injury ended her playing days in 2018.
Slegers began her coaching journey at Limhamn Bunkeflo in Sweden, initially leading their under-19 team before taking charge of the senior squad. She later managed Sweden’s Under-23 team and succeeded Jonas Eidevall at Rosengård in 2021, guiding the club to consecutive league titles.
Slegers joined Arsenal as Eidevall’s assistant in September 2023, reuniting with her former colleague before stepping into the interim head coach role.
A Well-Deserved Appointment
Slegers’ appointment was widely anticipated, given her impressive results as interim manager. Her ability to stabilize the team during a challenging period and guide them back into contention for major honors made her the natural choice.
Arsenal’s patient approach to the decision reflected the club’s awareness of the competitive landscape, with Chelsea and Manchester City continuing to strengthen. The extended search allowed them to evaluate all options while Slegers proved her capability in the role.
While names like Cushing and Stoney were briefly considered, none matched Slegers’ blend of familiarity with the club, tactical acumen, and proven success. Her appointment has been met with widespread support from Arsenal fans, who are optimistic about her ability to lead the team back to the top.
Slegers now has the opportunity to cement her legacy and guide Arsenal to success in both domestic and European competitions.