Arsenal defender Katie McCabe feels Renee Slegers’ ability to relate to players is one of the secrets behind the 36-year-old Champions League-winning boss’ success.
It has been a whirlwind week for Republic of Ireland captain McCabe, who lifted the Champions League trophy in Lisbon last Saturday, was front-and-centre at Monday’s London celebrations, then flew to Turkey to play in a vital 2-1 Nations League victory for her country.
McCabe, who has spent a decade with the Gunners, was welcomed back to international camp by a guard of honour to celebrate Arsenal’s European triumph over Barcelona, the first time an English side had lifted the trophy in 18 years.
“With Renee, that relationship and the direct line of communication from player to manager is so important to her,” McCabe told the PA news agency.
“You’ll have to ask her why that is, but in my opinion, I think it’s because she’s been a player before, she understands how it is sometimes, maybe if you’re going through a rough patch, or maybe on the other end you’re flying with confidence, but she gets that.
“She makes time for us, which is really important, and we massively respect her for that.”
Former midfielder Slegers, who split her senior career between the Netherlands and Sweden, took charge of Arsenal on an interim basis in October before being appointed full time in January.
Slegers reportedly holds open-floor meetings where players are encouraged to set the agenda.
And while she is very much the boss, unafraid to make difficult decisions, Slegers was equally at ease letting loose with her players in front of the thousands who gathered to greet the team outside the Emirates Stadium.
“She’s obviously an ex player, so that’s one aspect to (her success),” McCabe said.
“I think the calmness she has, the directness in what she wants, but also the way she is able to instill belief in the team and the players, whether you are in the starting 11 or you’ve come on to make an impact, it’s all about the team for her.
“Not just the players, but the staff as well.”
McCabe could field a football team from her own family – 11 siblings altogether – but admits she has barely had time to take in Arsenal’s accomplishment, let alone the reaction from back home.
“I haven’t had that moment yet,” she added. “I feel like there’s been little moments over the last few days, and when I got my mum and dad down on the pitch after and you’re kind of stood there with the trophy in your hand, that was a moment I was really proud of.
“They’ve sacrificed a lot and it’s not easy juggling 11 kids and trying to drive me all over the country.
“I’m sure I’ll have loads of moments coming up over the next few weeks, but the win absolutely topped off an incredible year.”
Cadbury Ambassador Katie McCabe is calling for the nation to nominate a local Game Changer for a chance to win a surprise visit from a Cadbury Ambassador. To find nominate head to @cadburyuk on Instagram.
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