Arsenal's Women's Super League title ambitions suffered a significant setback on Saturday as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage after United's Jayde Riviere was sent off, missing a golden opportunity to gain ground on the league leaders.
Red Card Fails to Spark Arsenal Breakthrough
The pivotal moment of the match arrived in the 65th minute when Manchester United right-back Jayde Riviere received her second yellow card. The dismissal followed a late challenge on Arsenal forward Caitlin Foord, leaving the visitors to play the final 25 minutes with only ten players. Despite the advantage, Arsenal's attack lacked the cutting edge required to break down a resolute United defence.
Both teams had created clear opportunities before the red card. United came agonisingly close early on when a powerful header from Fridolina Rolfo was brilliantly tipped onto the crossbar by Arsenal goalkeeper Anneke Borbe. At the other end, United's shot-stopper Phallon Tullis-Joyce produced a vital close-range save to deny Olivia Smith after a mix-up in the United back line.
Williamson's Welcome Return Amidst Managerial Boost
The match marked a major positive for the home side with the long-awaited return of captain Leah Williamson. The England international made her first league start of the season after recovering from a serious knee injury sustained during the triumphant Euro 2025 campaign. Her presence on the pitch provides a substantial boost to the squad's defensive solidity and leadership.
This comeback was further good news for manager Renee Slegers, who had earlier on Friday committed her future to the club by signing a new three-year contract. Slegers, who guided Arsenal to their second Women's Champions League title last year, will now remain at the helm until at least 2029.
WSL Table Tightens After Stalemate
The result has tangible consequences for the Women's Super League standings. Arsenal remain in third place with 23 points from 12 matches, just a single point ahead of Manchester United in fourth. The draw means Arsenal failed to close the gap on the top two.
Manchester City continue to lead the table with an impressive 30 points, while defending champions Chelsea sit in second place with 24 points. Crucially, both City and Chelsea hold a game in hand over the chasing pack, intensifying the pressure on Arsenal to convert draws into wins in the coming fixtures.
