Five things we learned from Renée Slegers’ pre-North London Derby press conference

Renée Slegers addressed the media ahead of a thrilling North London Derby clash against Tottenham Hotspur in the WSL.

Team News

The squad remains unchanged from the last press conference, though a few players could return depending on tomorrow’s session. 

Uncertainty over Chloe Kelly’s availability

Renee Slegers offers no definitive update on Chloe Kelly’s availability for Sunday.

"Hopefully she is available to be in the squad on Sunday."

"We want the best for Chloe. I've spoken to Chloe and she accepts situations as they are. She's really happy she's with us at the moment."

"We hope she is available on Sunday. We know what she can do for us. We look forward to her first minutes for Arsenal and we will see when that is."

No Set Return Date for Victoria Pelova

Victoria Pelova continues to make significant progress, having played minutes in the U21 game against Manchester United, a major step forward. However, no specific return date has been set.

"Most of the staff and most of the squad were outside watching [...] I think the girls have been supportive of each other for a long time. They understand what it means for the girls and how much effort it has taken Vic [Pelova] and Amanda [Ilestedt] to come back."

A Strong Connection with the Fans

The bond with the supporters remains at the heart of the team.

"I feel it personally, I feel supported. I feel they are really supporting the team, the players. I feel connected to them and I hope they feel connected to us. [...] They are inspiring to us."

"We're very aware that people invest a lot of time and effort to see us and support us. We want to bring something good back to them on Sunday."

The North London Derby: A Fierce Rivalry

As anticipation builds for the clash at the Emirates, the team is ready for the occasion.

"It's of course, the North London Derby, it's a rivalry. Hopefully we can make them feel very uncomfortable at the Emirates."

We are delighted to reveal the first ever Gooner Fanzine print edition dedicated to Arsenal Women! ?Featuring interviews with Leah Williamson, Alessia Russo and Renée Slegers, and packed full of content from our team of AWFC writers and creatives ?? pic.twitter.com/J9s4Hq6Hvk

— The Gooner (@GoonerFanzine) February 13, 2025