Arsenal midfielder Mariona Caldentey is embracing the pressure to deliver trophies this season, expressing optimism that a wave of seven new signings will help the team overcome the inconsistency that plagued their previous campaign. Caldentey highlighted the painful nature of last season's shortcomings, stating, "We have shown amazing moments and amazing games and others where we haven't been good enough. That happened too many times last year. It was painful."
The influx of new talent, including compatriot Ona Batlle and midfielder Georgia Stanway, is expected to elevate the team's quality. "We have added a lot of quality and that will help us," Caldentey said.
The Women's Super League is becoming increasingly competitive, with top players like two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas joining the league. Caldentey acknowledged the rising standards, noting, "It is a really attractive league. What you see and experience here, you don't get in other places. There are never any easy games." She added, "You want to play against the best - that's the challenge as a player and the quality here is really high."
Caldentey herself has been a standout performer for Arsenal, earning WSL Player of the Season honors and being named to the WSL Team of the Year in both of her seasons at the club. She has also been a finalist for the Ballon d'Or. Her role has evolved from a forward to a midfielder, contributing significantly to the team's attack, with only Alessia Russo having more combined goals and assists for Arsenal during Caldentey's tenure.
Discussing her positional changes, Caldentey stated, "You have to adapt to what the team needs. Last year, I played a different role, closer to our defensive line. I was not used to it but these things make you grow." While she enjoys playing in a more advanced, creative role, she remains committed to fulfilling team needs. "Of course I enjoy playing higher up where you can be more creative and more risky but whatever my coach or team needs, I'll do it."
With the team's objective clearly focused on securing silverware, Caldentey is preparing to meet the challenge head-on.