Arsenal Women are enduring their worst-ever start to a league season. Despite adding several talented players over the summer and returning to the Champions League after a year away, there’s little for fans to feel optimistic about.
Results – A Disastrous Start to the Campaign
After four games in the Women’s Super League (WSL), Arsenal find themselves in an unfamiliar and deeply troubling position, sitting in sixth place with just 5 points out of a possible 12. For a team that has long prided itself on competing at the top of the table, this early-season form contrasts starkly with high expectations.
The campaign began with cautious optimism as Arsenal faced Manchester City at the Emirates. The spotlight was on Vivianne Miedema, making her return to London. City had come close to ending Chelsea’s five-consecutive league victories last season but missed out on goal difference. Having added the WSL’s all-time top goal scorer after Arsenal let her go on a free, a lot of eyes were on them this season. In an electric game ending 2-2, Arsenal managed to grab an equalizer through Beth Mead. Although it was an important point, many felt that Arsenal should have won, especially considering the chances missed by Stina Blackstenius and Alessia Russo.
Arsenal’s only victory thus far came against Leicester City. But even that was less than convincing. Playing away, Frida Maanum was the only player to find the back of the net. Despite a dominating performance, Arsenal struggled to capitalize on their possession and chances. The highlight of the game was Daphne Van Domselaar, who made crucial saves on her first league start for the club.
Most disappointing was the goalless draw against Everton. Playing at home, it was an opportunity to gain some much-needed momentum, yet Arsenal produced an uninspired performance. Even with 21 shots, they failed to capitalize on every occasion, leaving fans frustrated. The team lacked the fluidity and pressing intensity expected of their calibre, with finishing woes costing them three points.
Arsenal’s league woes were compounded in Europe, with a disheartening 5-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in their Champions League opener sending shockwaves through the fanbase. Despite flashes of promise, the gulf between the sides was evident, particularly after the hour mark when Pernille Harder effortlessly bagged a hat-trick. It was a humbling experience that exposed Arsenal’s vulnerabilities against Europe’s elite.
Things somehow got worse when Arsenal hosted Chelsea in the league. Hopes were high for regaining some pride after earlier stumbles, yet the Gunners were handed another blow, losing 2-1 at home. Although Arsenal had more possession and an impressive number of attempts, their finishing lacked precision. This marks the first time in a decade that Arsenal has failed to win at home in three consecutive matches, underscoring the magnitude of the club’s current crisis.
For a team of Arsenal’s stature, if things don’t change soon, the early-season blip could escalate into a full-blown disaster. But what (or who) is the reason?
Key Reasons Behind Arsenal Women’s Struggles
1. Lack of Goal Threat
One of the most glaring issues Arsenal Women face this season is their lack of cutting edge in front of goal. Despite boasting a star-studded attacking lineup, the team has struggled to find the net. Arsenal has only managed 14 shots on target across their opening three WSL games, ranking sixth among teams with an equal number of matches played. Even more concerning is that they’ve scored only three goals, placing them eighth in the league. For a team with title ambitions, these stats are far below expectations and are a major factor in their slow start.
2. One-paced and Predictable Playing Style
Another key issue is Arsenal’s one-dimensional playing style. The team has become predictable, relying heavily on slow, possession-based build-up play without enough variety or dynamism in attack. This sluggish approach has made it easier for opponents to neutralize Arsenal’s forward line. Players like Alessia Russo and Caitlin Foord thrive on creativity and pace, but the current system isn’t getting the best out of them. To turn things around, the Gunners need to inject more pace and unpredictability into their game.
3. Lack of Consistency in Team Selection
Eidevall’s tactical inconsistency has been another point of contention. With constant changes to the starting XI and formation, the team has struggled to build any real chemistry or cohesion on the pitch. While some rotation is expected due to fixture congestion, the frequent tinkering has disrupted Arsenal’s flow. Fans have been left frustrated by the lack of a settled lineup, and this inconsistency has undoubtedly contributed to the team’s lacklustre performances.
4. Players Seem Unmotivated
One of the most concerning aspects of Arsenal’s poor start has been the visible lack of intensity and motivation among the players. Eidevall’s system seems to have lost its bite. There is a noticeable drop in energy and drive during matches, with players looking lethargic and uninspired. This could suggest a disconnect between the squad and the manager’s system, raising concerns about the long-term direction of the team.
Where Do Arsenal Women Go From Here?
1. Jonas Eidevall’s Future Under Scrutiny
Jonas Eidevall is facing increasing pressure as Arsenal’s poor form continues. Last season’s challenges have spilled over into the new campaign, and fans are growing restless. The frustration has boiled over to the point where graffiti reading “Jonas Out” has appeared outside the Emirates, reflecting the growing discontent among supporters.
Eidevall’s tactical decisions, frequent changes in the lineup, and inability to extract the best performances from the squad are all being questioned. If results don’t improve soon, Eidevall’s future at the club could be in jeopardy. The board may be forced to consider making a change if the team’s fortunes don’t turn around quickly.
2. Tactical Adjustments and Stability Are Key
For Arsenal to get back on track, Eidevall must bring more tactical stability to the team. Establishing a consistent starting XI and sticking with a cohesive system could allow the squad to build stronger connections and play with more fluidity. The constant changes to formations and lineups have hindered the team’s ability to gel. A more balanced approach, blending possession with quick transitions, could help unlock the full potential of Arsenal’s talented attackers like Russo, Mead, and Foord.
3. Rediscovering Confidence and Intensity
Arsenal Women desperately need a confidence boost to shake off this sluggish start. Whether it comes from a tactical shift or a statement win, the team must rediscover the belief that they can challenge at the top.Arsenal Women desperately need a confidence boost to shake off this sluggish start. Whether it comes from a tactical shift or a statement win, the team must rediscover the belief that they can challenge at the top. The players have the talent to compete with the best in the WSL, but they need to reignite the intensity and pressing game that has been missing. A revitalised Arsenal could still turn things around this season, but time is running out.
Conclusion
Arsenal Women are in uncharted territory with their worst-ever start to a WSL season. Jonas Eidevall’s position is under increasing scrutiny, and the team must address their lack of goal threat, tactical inconsistencies, and sluggish playing style if they are to rescue their campaign.
The upcoming matches will be pivotal in determining not only the trajectory of Arsenal’s season but also the future of their manager. Time to turn things around is running short, but with the right adjustments, there is still hope.
Ladies In Red 
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