Arsenal not in Champions League final to make up the numbers – Slegers

Renee Slegers warned Barcelona that Arsenal will not head to the Champions League final merely to participate, after the Gunners clinched second place in the Women's Super League.

Arsenal only needed a point against Manchester United on the final matchday to finish as runners-up to Chelsea, but they earned an eye-catching 4-3 win at the Emirates Stadium.

Ella Toone cancelled out Chloe Kelly's opener, but Arsenal scored three goals in an 11-minute spell in the second half, with Mariona Caldentey, Frida Maanum and Kim Little on target.

Goals from Elisabeth Terland and Maya Le Tissier set up a tense finale, but Arsenal held on to finish second for the second time in six seasons - and the first time since 2021-22.

Arsenal could crown their campaign with just their second European triumph, as they build towards the Champions League final against holders Barcelona on May 24.

And Slegers, who has overseen a major upturn in Arsenal's fortunes since taking the reins last October, says the Gunners will take the game to the Blaugrana.

"All my energy went into this game because it was crucial for us after the last two games, and for preparing for the next one," the head coach said.

"But of course, I am very proud that we put ourselves in this position, and it's not a lot of players or people working around teams that can say: 'I've been in the Champions League final'.

"It's the ultimate for every single player and staff member. So, we're very proud, and I'm very proud as well.

"I'm going to enjoy it, and we're going to show a lot of respect, because Barcelona are a very good footballing team and will be humble. But also, we aren't there just to participate, so we'll go there to win."

All that awaits us now is a Champions League final.In two weeks' time, we head to Lisbon with belief, heart and your tremendous support Let’s make it happen, Gooners pic.twitter.com/3wwiccZbgF
— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) May 10, 2025

Despite not finding the net on the final day, Gunners striker Alessia Russo shared the WSL Golden Boot with Manchester City's Khadija Shaw, netting 12 goals in the competition this term.

"I'm happy that she got rewarded for all the work that she does day in day out, and for the team as well," Slegers said of the England international.

"If you look at Alessia, it's not only the scoring contribution, but she contributes in so many ways to the team on and off the pitch. It's a privilege to work with these players, and Alessia is definitely one of them."