Frida Maanum feels that Arsenal possess a 'new energy and a positive environment' as they aim for a third consecutive victory under interim head coach Renée Slegers, facing an unbeaten Manchester United on Sunday. The midfielder noted that the recent international break provided much-needed respite for the team after a demanding October, which saw Jonas Eidevall step down. Slegers will continue to lead the team for all five of Arsenal's November matches, having already secured a 4-1 Champions League win against Norwegian club Vålerenga and a 2-0 Women's Super League victory over West Ham.
'I think [the break] came at the right time for us,' Maanum stated. 'It was an intense few weeks leading up to the international break, and transitioning into a different environment can be really positive. This time, it was beneficial for us as a group and as individuals, and we're returning with a new energy and a positive environment to work in.'
It is understood that Arsenal wanted to offer clarity to Slegers and the players for the upcoming matches in November, while also conducting a thorough recruitment process for a long-term head coach. Slegers commented, 'We've observed many positive aspects, including the two games before the international window, individual performances during the international break, and very strong training sessions. We are very optimistic about what lies ahead.'
Marc Skinner's United has the opportunity to top the WSL table, even if only temporarily, with a win against Arsenal. Skinner anticipates that Arsenal will serve as an ideal benchmark to evaluate his team's progress. The last time these teams met in February, Arsenal emerged 3-1 winners. A victory for United would mark the first time they have won their opening three home games in a WSL season, following wins against both West Ham and Tottenham by 3-0.
Skinner commended Slegers's interim role so far, stating, 'Renee has done a fantastic job. She knows the squad inside out. They're in good hands until they find the manager they want.' He added, 'Hopefully, it's a good game. We're looking to test ourselves and see where we stand. They're playing well, with some fantastic players, so it's a challenge we must rise to. It'll be a good indicator of our progress.'
United has conceded only one goal in the WSL this season, the best defensive record in the division. This match will be Skinner's 100th game in charge of United. 'I feel there's been a lot of growth in that time,' he said. 'I'm really proud to represent Manchester United. I want to be successful here for another 100 games, and to do that, we've got to win games. So, although it's a fantastic milestone for me personally, I'm hungrier than ever.'
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