WSL MOTM for Natalia Arroyo highlights progress under Aston Villa Women boss | OneFootball

In a well-deserved recognition, Natalia Arroyo is April's WSL Manager of the Month. If it weren't for the fact that the Spaniard arrived mid-season, she may have been in contention for the award for the entirety of the campaign. Even so, she'll have a strong case.

Simply put, under the AVWFC manager, this side looks like one of the better sides in the league. Arroyo's impact is unquestioned. Villa have seen a clear turnaround under her, and this is one of the more competitive sides in the WSL.

This ability for her to find success after a long run of losses is nothing short of impressive. Villa look confident on the ball and look a threat, particularly when they go up-tempo and start sending numbers in the attack.

For Arroyo, the challenge has been to implement her vision on the team while maintaining high spirits within the squad. Particularly before the latest winning streak, it would have been difficult for any manager to maintain positivity amidst a relegation battle.

Still, Villa achieved the needed results. This came too, despite an international break that could have broken up some of the momentum that had been building up as well. Here, the boss managed to navigate that additional challenge as well, and her efforts now see her side climbing the standings and making an incredible late-season push.

Carrying momentum into next season for Aston Villa Women

The upcoming season will be interesting to follow. There are a number of players whose contracts are set to expire. It could be something of a new-look lineup in certain areas. It is safe to assume, however, that the players will be more inclined to want to stay. This is particularly true with the run of form and total team displays that have come in the latest WSL matches.

Regardless of what happens in terms of the roster, Arroyo has proven that she can make the most of any given situation. In 2025-2026, her aim will be to be an early contender versus surviving in the league. That is a goal that April MOTM will be able to make a legitimate run at after the summer.