Arsenal coach Renee Slegers believes the next big step for women’s football is improving pitch quality after Ian Wright called Real Madrid’s field a “disgrace.”
Wright voiced his frustration after Arsenal lost 2-0 to Real Madrid in the Women’s Champions League quarter-final first leg. The poor pitch at the Estadio Alfredo di Stefano made it hard for both teams to play smoothly.
His comments followed similar complaints from Chelsea players about the Women’s League Cup final pitch at Derby County’s Pride Park.
Slegers admitted that the wet and muddy conditions affected Arsenal’s performance. The second leg will take place at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on March 26.
When asked if Real Madrid’s main Bernabeu stadium should have been used, she responded, “That’s not my decision. UEFA tries to ensure the best conditions, but weather is unpredictable. However, pitch quality must improve in women’s football.”
Slegers, who became Arsenal’s head coach in January after a strong interim period, added, “We knew the pitch would be difficult and planned for it. But when conditions change, it’s hard to stick to your usual playing style.”
