Frida Maanum starts in attacking midfield, with Alessia Russo upfront as Arsenal Women host Manchester United in the Women’s Super League. Stina Blackstenius was preferred in attack in the reverse fixture, a 0-0 draw at Leigh Sports Village.

Leah Williamson partners Steph Catley in defence for her first WSL start of the season. The England captain last started in the league against Manchester United on the final day of last season.

The Gunners are without first-choice goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar, who Slegers said is “very close” to returning from injury, whilst Chloe Kelly remains sidelined. 

Kyra Cooney-Cross is absent to be with her mum and family in Australia, with Mariona Caldentey alongside Kim Little in midfield. Olivia Smith and Beth Mead are out wide.

Arsenal: Borbe; McCabe, Catley, Williamson, Fox; Caldentey, Little; Smith, Maanum, Mead; Russo.

Subs: Williams, Holmberg, Wubben-Moy, Codina, Hinds, Pelova, Harwood, Foord, Blackstenius.

Introducing our first starting XI of 2026! ? pic.twitter.com/Srp7NBXBlv

— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) January 10, 2026