Villa’s WSL woes prompt Arroyo’s dismissal as club seeks fresh direction

Aston Villa have dismissed manager Natalia Arroyo after a winless start to the Women’s Super League, leaving the club second bottom with two draws and two defeats from their opening four matches, including a 4-0 loss to Tottenham on Sunday.

Arroyo arrived at Villa in January 2025 after a spell in charge of Real Sociedad Femenino, and she steered the club clear of relegation in her first season.

The club issued a statement on avfc.co.uk thanking her for her efforts and wishing her the best in future endeavours.

Sorensen to steer Villa in Cup clash

Technical advisor Brian Sorensen, the former Everton manager, will take charge on an interim basis and will be in the hotseat for the League Cup clash with Newcastle on Wednesday.

Villa invested heavily over the summer, securing experienced duo Mathilde Harviken and Amalie Vangsgaard from Juventus among other signings.

The underwhelming start has prompted the club to act, with Sorensen tasked with correcting the team’s current failings.

Villa now sit second bottom, one of four sides yet to win a point, alongside Brighton, Birmingham and Charlton.