Heartfelt Letter: An Open Letter From Leah Williamson To Head Coach Renée Slegers, Fans & The Entire Islington Community……
ISLINGTON, LONDON — July 8, 2025 — In an emotional and heartfelt gesture, Arsenal W.F.C. star and England international Leah Williamson has penned an open letter to head coach Renée Slegers, the loyal Arsenal fanbase, and the wider Islington community — a powerful message of gratitude, reflection, and hope that is already resonating deeply across the football world.
Published early this morning via Arsenal’s official website and social media channels, the letter is a raw and personal note from Williamson, who has recently returned to the pitch after a challenging year of injury and rehabilitation. Her words speak volumes not only about her journey but also the unwavering support she’s received from those around her.
“To Renée, the fans, and my Islington family,” the letter begins. “This isn’t just a thank-you. This is me trying to put into words how much you all mean to me — how you’ve held me up, inspired me, and reminded me why I fell in love with this game in the first place.
The message continues as Williamson opens up about her struggles during her ACL injury and recovery, a period she describes as “the hardest chapter of my career — and of my life.” She shares how the community’s support, both visible and quiet, helped her maintain the strength to heal and push forward.
“When I couldn’t walk, you believed I’d run again. When I felt invisible, your chants from the stands reminded me I was never alone. When I doubted myself, Renée never did. You, the fans, the club, my manager — you all carried me back to where I belong.”
Her words to Arsenal Women’s head coach Renée Slegers were particularly poignant. Slegers, who took over the managerial role with quiet authority and tactical brilliance, has been a key figure in Williamson’s return.
“Renée, your belief in me never wavered, even when mine did. You saw more than an injured player — you saw the leader, the teammate, the fighter in me. You let me heal, not just physically but emotionally. I am who I am today because of that space you gave me.”
The letter also touches on the broader community of Islington — from young girls playing football in local parks to long-time supporters who show up in all weather conditions. Williamson affectionately acknowledges them as her extended family.
“Islington, you’re not just the place I play — you are my home. Whether you cheered from the stands at Meadow Park, watched from a pub, or sent a note on social media — I heard you. And I promise, every tackle I make, every pass, every goal — it’s for you.”
Williamson also used the letter to reaffirm her long-term commitment to the club, and to speak directly to the younger generation:
“To every little girl watching from the stands — never stop dreaming. You belong in football, in leadership, in any space you choose. I see you, and I’m playing for you.
The letter concludes with a powerful promise:
“We’ve been through storms, and we’re still standing. With Renée, with this incredible team, and with every one of you — we’re building something special. And I’m just getting started.”
Within hours of publication, the letter had gone viral, drawing thousands of responses from fans, players, and football legends alike. Arsenal captain Kim Little called it “one of the most beautiful and honest letters I’ve ever read.” England manager Sarina Wiegman praised Williamson’s “grace, grit, and leadership.”
For Arsenal supporters, it’s more than a letter — it’s a love note to the club and its people, from a player who has grown from academy prospect to icon, captain, and role model. As the season draws near, one thing is clear: Leah Williamson isn’t just back. She’s home.