Arsenal’s Steph Catley on WSL title challenge: “There are no excuses”

Arsenal defender Steph Catley has sent a clear message ahead of the 2025/26 Women’s Super League season: the Gunners are ready to end Chelsea’s six-year dominance. After lifting the Women’s Champions League trophy, Catley believes Arsenal now has the squad and mentality to reclaim domestic glory.

Arsenal Chasing First League Crown Since 2019

Arsenal remains the last club to win the WSL before Chelsea’s reign, with their most recent title dating back to the 2018/19 season. Since then, Emma Hayes’ side has collected six consecutive championships, setting a new standard in English women’s football.

Now, with three league titles in their history and renewed momentum after European success, Arsenal enters the season as one of the strongest contenders to challenge Chelsea.

Catley: “We Have Everything Ready”

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Women’s Football Weekly, Catley acknowledged the weight of expectation following Arsenal’s European triumph:

“Once you win something as big as the Women’s Champions League, there’s a target on your back. There’s an expectation that you go on and do incredible things. Domestically, we haven’t won as much as we probably could have and should have.”

The Australian international emphasized the need for consistency and unity if Arsenal are to succeed:

“There are no excuses. We have the team. We have everything ready. The important thing is to come together on the field and meet expectations. At the national level, we can’t afford to lose form.”

Season Opener Against WSL Newcomers

Arsenal begins their WSL campaign on Saturday, September 6, facing London City Lionesses at the Emirates Stadium. Kickoff is set for 9:30 AM (Brasília time).

The matchup not only marks Arsenal’s title quest but also the Lionesses’ historic debut in the top flight of English women’s football.