Arsenal Women manager Jonas Idewal has resigned following the club’s poor start to the season.
The Swedish native played for the Emirates for over three years, helping them win two League Cups.
But last week’s 5-2 defeat by Bayern Munich in the Champions League and 2-1 loss at home to WSL title rivals Chelsea on Saturday sparked strong criticism, leading to his decision to resign this morning.
Club statement: Jonas Eidevall
— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) October 15, 2024
Assistant coach Renee Slegers will take over the position on an interim basis.
Arsenal sporting director Edu said: “I would like to thank Jonas for his commitment to the club and the achievements he has achieved since joining us in 2021.”
“We have great respect for the dedication and commitment he has shown to our women’s first team and recognize the role he has played in the growth and development of Arsenal Women’s team. We all wish him the best for his future.
“Our focus will now turn to the process of appointing a new manager and supporting Rene until he takes interim charge of the team, starting with two important games this week.”
Caldentey joins from Barcelona.
Arsenal have added several players over the past few months, including Spanish World Cup winner Mariona Caldentey, who joined from Barcelona in July.
Her addition to a squad that also includes Lionesses Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Alessia Russo was expected to give Arsenal a serious test to WSL champions Chelsea, but that did not materialize.
The draw with Manchester City and, most damagingly, Everton’s 1-0 win over Leicester City were disappointing, but the manner in which they lost to Chelsea at the weekend was a wake-up call.
They haven’t impressed in the Champions League either.
Eidevall’s squad advanced to the group stage but had to return after losing 1-0 to Swedish side Hacken in the first leg.
This was Jonas Idewall’s final interview as Arsenal manager.#BBCFootball #WSL pic.twitter.com/reptpBPCwx
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) October 15, 2024
Wheatley is confident in the Slegers.
Claire Whitley, Arsenal Women’s Football Director, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to Jonas for his hard work and commitment to Arsenal Football Club over the last three years.
“Jonas has brought us back-to-back trophies over the past two seasons along with many memorable moments on the pitch.
“We wish Jonas and his family the best of health, happiness and future success.
“We have full confidence in Rene to take charge of the team during the interim period.”
