Arsenal Miss Chance to Climb WSL Table in Draw with United

Arsenal had a prime opportunity to close the gap at the top of the Women’s Super League but settled for a frustrating 0-0 draw against Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium on January 10. The match featured a pivotal moment when United’s right back, Jayde Riviere, received a red card in the 65th minute after a second yellow card for a late challenge on Arsenal forward Caitlin Foord. Despite playing with an extra player for the final 25 minutes, Arsenal could not capitalize on their advantage.

The result leaves Arsenal in third place in the league standings with 23 points from 12 matches, just one point ahead of United, who remain in fourth. Manchester City leads the table with 30 points, while the defending champions, Chelsea, hold second place with 24 points and have a game in hand.

Both teams had opportunities to score throughout the match. United’s Fridolina Rolfo nearly opened the scoring early with a header that was tipped onto the crossbar by Arsenal goalkeeper Anneke Borbe. At the other end, Arsenal’s Olivia Smith was denied by United’s goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce after a defensive mix-up.

The match also marked a significant return for Arsenal captain Leah Williamson, who made her first league start of the season following recovery from a knee injury sustained during Euro 2025, which England won. Williamson’s return is a boost for manager Renee Slegers, who recently signed a new three-year contract with the club, extending his tenure until 2029. Slegers led Arsenal to their second Women’s Champions League title last year, further solidifying his position within the club.

The draw has left Arsenal and United pondering missed opportunities as they both look to improve their standings in the competition. With the season still young, both teams remain in contention, but they will need to convert chances into points to challenge for the top spots in the coming weeks.