What to expect from this season of the WSL

There has never been a more exciting time to be a fan of the Women’s Super League. With a new restructure, world-class stars joining the league, and exciting transfers between teams, the 26/27 season is promising to be one to remember.

Manchester City took home the trophy last season for the first time since 2016 and have already bolstered their ranks with England internationals Beth Mead and Niamh Charles as they aim to retain their title. But it won’t be easy – the rest of the top four have also been flexing their muscles. Arsenal have had a busy window thus far, reinforcing their squad with Spanish defender Ona Batlle and English midfielder Georgia Stanway being two of the most prominent names. Their London rivals Chelsea have also made ambitious moves, signing the Gunners’ former fullback Katie McCabe and adding some promising young talent. Manchester United have lost multiple senior players, but with newly appointed manager Eva Olid at the helm, who just won the Scottish league with her former club Hearts, fans will be hoping she can replicate her previous success for the Red Devils.

London City Lionesses have been making statement signing after statement signing and are shaping up to be a serious team

One team has undoubtedly stolen the spotlight with their summer transfers. London City Lionesses have been making statement signing after statement signing and are shaping up to be a serious team. Operating independently from a men’s team, and having only played their maiden WSL season last year, they have quickly risen up the ranks. The biggest name they have brought in is Alexia Putellas, Spain and former Barcelona midfielder and two-time Ballon d’Or winner. Club owner Michele Kang has splashed her cash on the team, signing other superstars in Mapi León, Mary Earps, and Kadidiatou Diani in a bid to secure trophies.

The mid-table pack are not to be underestimated either. Tottenham Hotspur have added several top signings, including Kirsty Hanson, who scored 12 WSL goals for Aston Villa last season, to a side that finished fifth.  Brighton also had success last season, reaching the FA cup final for the first time and picking up impressive points against big teams. They have only improved their squad, adding midfield veteran Lia Wälti to the mix and versatile defender Gabby George from Manchester United. Both teams will certainly be hoping to cause an upset this year.

The WSL is also undergoing exciting structural changes, expanding from 12 to 14 teams

The WSL is also undergoing exciting structural changes, expanding from 12 to 14 teams. Charlton Athletic beat Leicester City in their promotion play-off and will be joined by WSL 2 champions Birmingham City and runners-up Crystal Palace in being promoted. Charlton will be making their first appearance in the topflight since 2008, whilst Birmingham City and Crystal Palace have had more recent stints, during the 2021/22 and 2024/25 seasons respectively.

Increasing the league size means more games, more action, and more possibility for teams to take points off each other. While promoted teams have historically struggled, they are not to be written off. Crystal Palace in particular look strong, having added former Spurs captain Beth England and WSL 2 top scorer Lexi Lloyd-Smith to their squad.

Kicking off in the first week of September, this WSL season promises to be one for the books. With more teams, exciting new players, and fierce rivalries igniting, there is certain to be plenty of drama in store.