Manchester United Women are back in Barclays Women’s Super League action this Saturday, January 10, 2026, as they travel south to face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. After a festive break that saw the Reds last take to the pitch three weeks ago against Tottenham Hotspur in the Subway Women’s League Cup, anticipation is high for this crucial league fixture in the capital. With both teams jostling for European qualification and only a single point separating them in the standings, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
It’s a classic matchup with plenty of recent history. When these two sides last met earlier in the season at the Progress With Unity Stadium, neither could break the deadlock, finishing in a tense 0-0 draw. Since then, Arsenal have found a rich vein of form, stringing together six consecutive victories across all competitions. That impressive run has propelled Renee Slegers’s side into a strong position both domestically and in Europe, where they’ve continued to progress alongside Manchester United Women.
Saturday’s fixture is more than just another league game; it’s a pivotal moment in the campaign for both clubs. Arsenal, currently sitting just one point ahead of United, know that a win would create some breathing room in the race for European spots. For United, the opportunity to leapfrog their rivals and make a statement on the Gunners’ home turf is tantalizing. And let’s not forget, the Emirates will host a quick rematch in less than two weeks, when these teams clash again in the League Cup on January 21.
Manager Marc Skinner faces a mixed bag on the team news front. In his recent interview with club media, Skinner confirmed that Ella Toone, Leah Galton, and Gabby George will all miss out due to injury. Their absence is undoubtedly a blow, with Toone and Galton regular fixtures in United’s attacking setup and George a reliable presence at the back. However, there’s a silver lining: new winter signings Hanna Lundkvist and Lea Schuller are both in contention for their league debuts. Their arrival has injected fresh optimism into the squad and could provide a timely boost as the season heats up.
Millie Turner’s return to the matchday bench against Spurs last time out was another welcome development for United. After a prolonged spell on the sidelines, her presence gives Skinner added options in defense. Meanwhile, Jayde Riviere, who missed the previous outing with a knock, appears to have shaken off her injury and is expected to feature.
On the Arsenal side, all eyes will be on former Manchester United striker Alessia Russo. Since making the switch, Russo has quickly established herself as a key figure for the Gunners, notching five goals in all competitions so far this season. Her knack for finding the net and her inside knowledge of the United camp add an intriguing subplot to the contest. The Gunners’ attack, already potent, has been firing on all cylinders during their recent winning streak, making them a formidable opponent on their own patch.
Both teams have enjoyed success beyond the league, with progress in European competition underscoring their quality and depth. For United, the focus now shifts back to domestic matters, and the challenge doesn’t come much bigger than a trip to the Emirates. The Gunners’ home ground is expected to be buzzing, with tickets still available for fans eager to witness what promises to be a fiercely contested affair.
For those unable to make it to London, there’s no shortage of ways to follow the action. Kick-off is set for 12:30 GMT, and the match will be broadcast live in the UK and Ireland on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League. Fans in the United States can tune in via ESPN+, while supporters in other regions are advised to check Live Soccer TV for local listings. Additionally, Manchester United’s official website and app will provide exclusive updates, stats, analysis, and post-match reaction, ensuring no one misses a beat. Live commentary will be available from Liam Bradford and Siobhan Chamberlain, bringing fans closer to the on-field drama.
The timing of this fixture adds extra intrigue, as it kicks off a full weekend of Women’s Super League action. With every club returning to domestic play after the winter break, the race for the top spots is about to intensify. For United, the extended rest could prove a blessing, allowing the squad to regroup and integrate new faces ahead of a critical run of matches. For Arsenal, maintaining momentum will be key as they look to extend their winning streak and cement their place near the summit.
Looking ahead, the quick turnaround before the League Cup rematch on January 21 means both managers may have one eye on squad rotation and tactical tweaks. The familiarity between the sides, heightened by recent encounters and shared personnel like Russo, sets the stage for a tactical chess match. Will United’s new signings make an immediate impact? Can Arsenal’s attack continue to dazzle? And how will the absence of key United players affect the balance of power?
There’s also the psychological edge to consider. United will be eager to avenge their earlier stalemate and prove they can go toe-to-toe with one of the league’s form teams. Arsenal, buoyed by their recent results and home advantage, will look to assert their dominance and send a message to the rest of the league.
As the clock ticks down to kick-off, anticipation is building among players, coaches, and supporters alike. With the table so finely poised and European qualification hanging in the balance, every point counts. The Emirates Stadium is set to host a battle not just for bragging rights, but for a crucial foothold in the race for the season’s biggest prizes.
So, whether you’re watching from the stands, tuning in from home, or following every update online, this is one clash you won’t want to miss. The action is about to unfold, and with so much on the line, expect drama, intensity, and perhaps a few surprises along the way. Stay tuned as Manchester United Women and Arsenal write the next chapter in their growing rivalry, with everything still to play for as the Women’s Super League resumes in earnest.