The Women’s Super League (WSL) rarely fails to deliver drama, storylines, and standout individual displays. This week was no different, as Arsenal fans witnessed a sparkling debut from Olivia Smith, the Canadian sensation who has long been tipped as one of the brightest young attacking midfielders in women’s football. While Arsenal basked in the energy of their new arrival, Manchester United were also making headlines, with three of their key players putting in performances that showcased the depth, balance, and ambition of Marc Skinner’s side.
As the WSL season gains momentum, we dive deep into the talking points that emerged from the latest round of fixtures—Smith’s electrifying start in North London, United’s midfield brilliance, and what these developments mean in the wider context of the league’s title race.
Olivia Smith’s Arrival Arsenal’s Missing Spark
Arsenal’s decision to sign Olivia Smith was greeted with excitement but also curiosity. At just 19 years old, Smith had been dazzling in Canada and the NWSL, but the WSL represents another level of intensity, technicality, and tactical nuance. Could she adapt quickly to the rigors of English football?
That question was emphatically answered in her debut. From the moment she stepped onto the pitch, Smith carried herself with the confidence of a seasoned professional.
- Technical Brilliance: Her first touches under pressure consistently opened up space, turning defensive situations into attacking platforms.
- Vision: Twice she split the opposition backline with perfectly weighted passes, one of which directly led to Arsenal’s opening goal.
- Fearlessness: Despite her age, she didn’t shy away from physical duels, pressing high and winning possession in advanced areas.
Fans at the Emirates were treated to a performance that suggested Smith won’t just be a squad player—she looks ready to become a central figure in Jonas Eidevall’s plans.
A Performance That Fits Arsenal’s Identity
Arsenal, under Eidevall, have sought to blend high-tempo pressing with fluid, creative attacking football. At times, they’ve been criticized for lacking a consistent link between midfield and attack—someone who can both progress the ball and commit defenders.
Smith’s debut hinted she could be that missing piece.
- Between the Lines Play: Operating in pockets of space just behind the striker, Smith repeatedly drew out defenders, creating gaps for wingers like Caitlin Foord to exploit.
- Transitional Threat: On the counterattack, she carried the ball with pace and intent, reminiscent of Vivianne Miedema’s role at her peak.
- Chemistry with Teammates: In just one game, her understanding with Kim Little and Lia Wälti looked promising. Little dictated tempo deeper, while Smith pushed forward, giving Arsenal a dynamic balance.
It was a performance that suggested the club’s scouting team had done their homework. Arsenal may have just found their next long-term star.
Manchester United’s Trio Shine
While Arsenal celebrated Smith’s arrival, Manchester United showcased their own strengths. Three players in particular stood out, reaffirming the depth of talent Skinner has assembled.
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Ella Toone – The Creative Conductor
Ella Toone once again demonstrated why she’s one of the WSL’s most reliable creative midfielders. Against a stubborn defense, her quick passing and intelligent movement unlocked spaces. She assisted one goal with a perfectly floated cross and could have had more had her forwards been sharper in front of goal.
Her role as the team’s conductor is becoming more prominent, especially in matches where United dominate possession.
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Mary Earps – The Wall at the Back
Mary Earps has been central to United’s rise in recent years, and her latest performance reminded everyone why she’s England’s number one. Pulling off a string of saves, including a spectacular diving stop to her right, Earps kept her team in the game during a difficult spell.
Her leadership from the back—marshalling her defenders, demanding organization, and exuding confidence—gave United a platform to eventually secure the result.
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Nikita Parris – Relentless Energy and End Product
Often described as one of the hardest-working forwards in the league, Parris turned her industry into productivity. She scored a poacher’s goal, pressing the opposition into a mistake before finishing clinically. Beyond the goal, her constant runs stretched the defense, creating room for others to operate.
Parris’ form has been inconsistent in recent seasons, but this performance suggested she could be on track for one of her most impactful campaigns yet.
The Wider Implications for the WSL
The performances of Smith at Arsenal and the United trio raise important questions about the balance of power in the WSL this season.
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Arsenal’s Title Ambitions
Arsenal’s fans have long demanded consistency from their side. With Chelsea and Manchester City regularly setting the pace, Arsenal have at times struggled to keep up. But if Smith continues to deliver, she could provide the spark needed to transform promising performances into decisive victories.
Smith’s integration also alleviates pressure on other creative players, allowing Eidevall to rotate and maintain freshness across competitions. With Champions League commitments also on the horizon, squad depth is crucial, and Smith’s early impact makes Arsenal look more formidable.
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Manchester United’s Evolution
For United, the takeaway is the strength of their spine: Earps in goal, Toone in midfield, and Parris in attack. Add to that the presence of Alessia Russo, Ona Batlle, and Leah Galton, and you have a side capable of challenging the league’s elite.
However, consistency remains their Achilles’ heel. United’s biggest tests will come against the “big three” of Chelsea, Arsenal, and City. Performances like this weekend’s show they have the talent; now they must prove they can sustain it across the season.
Tactical Talking Points
Beyond individual brilliance, several tactical themes emerged.
- The Importance of Pressing
Both Arsenal and United showcased aggressive pressing games. Arsenal used Smith’s energy to trigger presses high up the pitch, while United relied on Parris to force errors from defenders. The WSL is increasingly defined by pressing intensity, mirroring trends in the men’s game. - Goalkeeper Influence
Mary Earps’ heroics reminded us how vital elite goalkeeping is in tight matches. With so many evenly matched teams, a single save can swing the outcome. Arsenal’s Manuela Zinsberger also impressed, ensuring her side didn’t squander Smith’s good work. - Midfield Control
Matches in the WSL are often won or lost in midfield. Toone’s creativity and Smith’s dynamism highlighted how central midfielders dictate tempo and chance creation. Clubs lacking midfield balance often struggle to compete at the top end.
Fan Reactions
Social media buzzed after Smith’s debut. Arsenal fans filled timelines with praise:
- “Olivia Smith is the real deal. What a debut! She already looks like she belongs in this squad.”
- “Finally, a proper link between midfield and attack. Eidevall has struck gold with Smith.”
Meanwhile, United fans hailed their trio’s contributions:
- “Mary Earps is worth points on her own. Best keeper in the world.”
- “Ella Toone pulling strings as usual. What a player.”
- “Parris looking sharp again! If she keeps this up, defenses won’t know how to handle us.”
The excitement reflected the sense that both Arsenal and United are closing the gap on perennial champions Chelsea.
The Challenge of Chelsea and City
Despite Arsenal’s new signing and United’s strong performers, Chelsea and Manchester City remain formidable. Chelsea’s squad depth and Emma Hayes’ tactical nous make them perennial favorites, while City boast some of the league’s most technically gifted players, including Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly.
For Arsenal and United, the challenge is not just competing in head-to-head battles with these rivals, but ensuring they don’t drop points against mid-table teams—a problem that has haunted them in previous seasons.
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