Arsenal give glimpse of what is possible in late comeback vs Manchester City

Jonas Eidevall's pre-match message was clear.

As the Arsenal boss addressed the media ahead of his team's clash with Manchester City, he was keen to point out the similarities between himself and opposition boss, Gareth Taylor. Last season, City finished level on points with the Gunners but their inferior goal difference saw them end the campaign behind the North Londoners and outside of the European places.

Fast forward to now, though, and the Blues have the chance to win their first Women's Super League (WSL) title since 2016, even if Sunday's 2-1 defeat to Arsenal at the Joie Stadium means Chelsea can now spoil their party. «That is where we need to keep our belief in what we are trying to achieve,» Eidevall said.

«That is what City have been doing very well, at times when they didn’t get the results, like last season which was, of course, disappointing for them to finish 4th, they kept their belief in the players, in the coach and that was the right decision for them.

»Everything underlying showed them they were on the right path and that has given them success this season."

It's clear that, in drawing parallels between the two clubs, Eidevall was trying to highlight the virtues of giving a manager time. City missed out on Champions League qualification last season but the Blues are now reaping the rewards of standing by their man.

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Taylor was handed a new three-year contract back in March and, before this weekend's defeat, his side had won a record 14 consecutive league games. Judging by Arsenal's inconsistency this season, it feels like