Introduction:

Kyra Cooney-Cross signed for Arsenal in September 2023, marking a pivotal moment in her career, but faced challenges in securing a regular starting spot under former manager Jonas Eidevall. Her first start under Renée Slegers came in the 4-0 victory over Aston Villa, and since then, Cooney-Cross has been a fixture in the starting lineup, making 8 appearances in Slegers’ tenure. By contrast, under Eidevall, she started just 17 matches over the course of a year. This shift underscores her rising influence in Arsenal’s midfield under Slegers.

Kyra Cooney-Cross as a Player:

Kyra Cooney-Cross is a dynamic and intelligent midfielder, known for her ability to both break up attacks and drive her team forward. She has a natural knack for reading the game, often positioning herself perfectly to intercept passes and disrupt the opposition. But she’s more than just defensively solid—her vision and passing ability allow her to link up play and create opportunities in attack. Cooney-Cross has a real presence in midfield, combining energy, composure, and creativity to influence games on both ends of the pitch. At just 22 years old, she possesses a maturity and composure on the ball that belies her age, showcasing a level of talent that promises an exciting future ahead.

Solidifying a Spot at a Top Club:

Securing a spot in a top club like Arsenal is no easy feat, especially with the intense competition for places in such a talented squad. However, Kyra Cooney-Cross has seized her opportunity and impressed under Renée Slegers, showcasing the skill and composure needed to thrive at the highest level. While seasoned players like Lia Wälti and Kim Little have long been pillars of Arsenal’s midfield, age and injury concerns have opened the door for Cooney-Cross to step up. Her consistent performances have shown that she is more than capable of filling the void, and with time, she could establish herself as a central figure in Arsenal’s midfield for years to come.

Tactical Fit Under Slegers:

Under Renée Slegers, Kyra Cooney-Cross has thrived in a more dynamic, pressing system that plays to her strengths. Unlike under Jonas Eidevall, where her role was more conservative, Slegers allows her the freedom to move between defensive and offensive duties. This flexibility, combined with her quick decision-making and passing range, has made her a key player in Arsenal’s fluid midfield. The emphasis on fast transitions and forward-thinking play has enabled Cooney-Cross to showcase both her defensive solidity and creativity, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

The Future is Bright:

Kyra Cooney-Cross’s journey at Arsenal has been one of growth, opportunity, and rising influence. After a challenging start under Jonas Eidevall, she has taken full advantage of her chance under Renée Slegers, cementing her place as a vital part of the team’s midfield. With her dynamic style of play and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, Cooney-Cross has quickly become a cornerstone of Arsenal's midfield. As she continues to develop alongside seasoned players, her future at both club and international level looks incredibly promising, and she is poised to play a key role in shaping the success of Arsenal and the Australian national team for years to come.