This summer, Slegers has bolstered her squad with seven signings, including full-back Ona Batlle, a fellow Spaniard to Caldentey, and England powerhouse Georgia Stanway to add steel in midfield.
Caldentey believes Arsenal fell short last season because of inconsistency and hopes the arrivals will help fix that.
“We produced brilliant spells and standout games, but there were too many occasions when we weren’t at the level,” she reflected. “That hurt.”
“We’ve added a lot of quality, and that will make a difference.”
With two-time Ballon d’Or winner and compatriot Alexia Putellas joining the WSL at London City Lionesses, Caldentey accepts the league is getting stronger.
“It’s a very appealing league,” she said. “What you experience here is unique. There are no straightforward matches.”
“You want to test yourself against the best—that’s the essence of being a player—and the standard here is extremely high.”
By any measure, Caldentey belongs among that elite.
Across two seasons at Emirates Stadium, she has claimed WSL Player of the Season, finished runner-up in the 2024-25 Ballon d’Or, and been selected for the WSL Team of the Year twice.
In that time, her duties have shifted from forward to midfield, yet only Alessia Russo has combined for more goals and assists at Arsenal.
“You adjust to what the team needs,” she said. “Last year I played closer to the back line—new for me—but it helped me grow.”
“I’m better now than a year ago. I love playing higher, where you can be more creative and take risks, but I’ll do whatever the coach and team ask.”
Her manager has set a clear demand for trophies, and Caldentey is gearing up to meet it.