Arsenal’s early WSL woes rooted in poor finishing and wasted possession
Arsenal sit 10th in the Women’s Super League after five matches, with their expected goals far outpacing actual goals. The team has created chances but struggled to finish, and their high possession and turnovers have rarely turned into dangerous shots. The article also questions whether the squad is being used effectively.
Arsenal sit 10th after five WSL matches. Opta data through Oct. 2 show four goals from 8.2 expected goals, or 0.8 xG per game. They generated nine big chances in their opener but scored once; Alessia Russo missed six big chances in four games.
Their shots averaged 0.085 non-penalty xG, and 35% were blocked, a league high. They had 54 turnovers, third most, but only seven led to shots and none to goals. They led the league in passes in the opposition half and final third. Against Crystal Palace, 70 of 205 box touches came in a 0-0 draw. Renée Slegers made nine changes and used 21 players in four games, the most at report time.
Arsenal’s slow start could shape how fans, players and sponsors perceive the WSL season. Supporters may feel frustration, while players could face added scrutiny and pressure. If the team’s finishing and possession issues continue, media narratives around underachievement may grow, potentially affecting attendance, engagement and commercial interest in women’s football. A turnaround, however, could restore confidence and keep attention on the league’s competitiveness.