The trio also discussed their standout moments against the Gunners, and one match in particular sprung to mind. Our 3-1 home victory against Arsenal in March 2024 came from a goal by James and a brace from Nusken. Our No.10 recalled that the kick-off was delayed by 30 minutes that day while the away side – who had forgotten their socks – had to source alternatives from our Megastore.

Nusken remembers her unusual goal from that game, while Bronze looks back on a special celebration from Nusken and Mayra Ramirez at the Emirates in October 2024.

To conclude, the three players reflect on what it would mean to put a marker down with a victory against our rivals at our new permanent home so early in the campaign. Here's what they had to say...

What does the rivalry with Arsenal mean to you?

Lucy Bronze: Yeah, it's a lot. Now that I play for Chelsea, I realise how big it is. I've played in a lot of derbies before; Merseyside, Manchester, both in France and Spain as well.

I think because both teams are very successful, really top-level teams and fighting for the same things, it's probably one of the most heated rivalries I've played in terms of how close the competition is.

Lauren James: It's a huge rivalry, but I played there as well, so I have a lot of respect for the club.

It's two great teams going up against each other, so it's always going to be a tough game. I always want to do well, and you always want to do even better against the team you played for.

Sjoeke Nusken: It's always a special game against them. It’s always the question: red or blue? You can feel the tension from everyone, every fan.

What was the biggest moment against Arsenal that you remember?

Bronze: I remember when we played them at the Emirates in my first season, because Mayra and Sio did a celebration. There was the second leg of the Champions League last year too, and obviously we won the game, but we lost the tie.

It was probably one of the most intense and aggressive performances that we have ever put on. We probably deserved a bit more from the game, but it was just such an intense game to be part of.

James: For me, it was when we beat them at the Bridge, and they had to wear our socks. Seeing that moment sticks out the most.

Nusken: The game when I scored with my bum, maybe! I actually scored twice, and we won this one at Stamford Bridge as well.

Does playing Arsenal early in the season hold some significance?

Bronze: It’s nice to play a big, top team early in the season, especially as we get to play them at home as well. We perform well at home.

It will give us a good gauge of where we are in terms of competing for the league. It’s an exciting game to be part of so early on.

James: I don't think the season is decided by one game, especially so early on. But we definitely try to go into each game and show people what we're made of.

Nusken: It’s always good to win against Arsenal. It's always a statement. I think especially after last season when we lost to them in the Champions League. This is the next game after that, so it will be a big game for us to win this one.

Don't miss our huge London derby clash against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge! Secure your seat now...