Renée Slegers expresses an optimistic outlook as the new season begins, particularly following the success of her team in the Champions League. The recent triumph over Barcelona in Lisbon has set a high bar, but Slegers emphasizes a commitment to consistency and awareness as they prepare to face the London City Lionesses in their opening Women’s Super League (WSL) match.
Slegers recognizes that pressure is an inherent part of the game, especially as reigning champions. “We always feel pressure,” she noted during her pre-match press conference. This acknowledgment of pressure reflects an understanding of the expectations that come with success. The team’s reputation means that opponents will always be eager to outperform them, creating a competitive atmosphere that requires constant vigilance and consistency from Slegers’ squad.
Reflecting on their past performances, Slegers highlighted that the club last secured the WSL title in the 2018/19 season. Since then, Chelsea has dominated the league, winning six consecutive titles. This statistic underscores the challenge facing Slegers and her players as they attempt to reclaim their position at the top of English women’s football.
In preparation for the upcoming season, Slegers has proactively managed squad dynamics by signing four new players in July. “It was really important to have a good idea early of how we wanted to build the squad,” she stated. This strategic planning is aimed at integrating new talent early in the season, which she believes can enhance their chances of competing effectively both domestically and internationally.
Slegers’ satisfaction with her current squad is palpable. She appreciates the effort put into assembling the team and emphasizes the importance of hard work and humility. “There’s zero guarantee,” she explained, stressing that the journey to success is fraught with challenges. The team’s victory in the Champions League wasn’t merely a result of talent; it also came from overcoming various difficulties throughout the season.
This perspective fosters a sense of realism among the players. The knowledge that perfection is unattainable allows them to focus on making the most of each moment, learning from experiences along the way. Slegers expresses her belief in their collective potential, underpinning this with a call for humility moving forward. Her insights remind the squad that while they have a foundation of success, diligence, dedication, and the right mindset will be essential.
In summary, Renée Slegers stands ready to lead her team into the new season with newfound confidence buoyed by last season’s achievements. Her commitment to fostering a proactive approach in team development, coupled with an understanding of the pressure that comes with being champions, sets a constructive tone for the season ahead. As they prepare to kick off against London City Lionesses, the focus remains on consistency, hard work, and the gradual build-up of team chemistry, with hopes of reclaiming their place as WSL champions. Her leadership will be vital, as well as the commitment from every player to create what could be another memorable season.
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