It wasn’t that long ago in the women’s game that Arsenal were the dominant force in England, boasting the best squad in the country and the most advantageous opportunities for semi-professional players. Regardless of new up-and-comers arriving, the Gunners were consistent in their ability to deal with any challengers and when it came to domestic silverware and few could deny the only British women’s team to win a UEFA title (the UEFA Women’s Cup in 2006-07).
The advent of the Women’s Super League for the 2011 season saw a restructuring of women’s football in England that ultimately put an end to Arsenal’s almighty dominance. Although still involved in title fights and cup finals, the Gunners were no longer the only big dog on the block with Chelsea eventually emerging as the challenger with the loudest bark as the game professionalised. It wasn’t just the gentle exodus of players to their London rivals after former coach Emma Hayes made the switch to Chelsea and built one of the more potent dynasties in English women’s football — it was the silverware that began to flow to a new home in…
