A comprehensive preview of the 2025-26 WSL season, including pundit predictions and Emma Sanders’ detailed analysis of each team’s chances. Chelsea aims for a seventh consecutive title, while Arsenal and Manchester City look to challenge. London City Lionesses make their debut with a strong squad. Sanders provides insights on each team’s strengths, weaknesses, and transfer window moves, setting the stage for an exciting season.
The Barclays Women's Super League (WSL) is back, kicking off on Friday, and the burning question on everyone's mind is: can anyone dethrone Chelsea? The Blues, managed by Sonia Bompastor, are aiming for an unprecedented seventh consecutive title. Last season, they dominated the league, finishing a whopping 12 points ahead of their closest rivals, Arsenal. However, the Gunners have been busy in the transfer window and are hoping to close the gap this season.
Adding intrigue to the mix, London City Lionesses are making their WSL debut, bringing fresh energy and competition to the league. Several clubs, including Manchester City, Liverpool, and Tottenham, have new managers at the helm, signaling potential shifts in strategy and performance. Before the transfer window slammed shut, BBC Sport's pundits and presenters shared their top three predictions for the 2025-26 campaign, offering insights into who they believe will be the frontrunners.
Now that the transfer window is closed, BBC Sport women's football news reporter Emma Sanders has provided her comprehensive predictions for each team's final standings this season. Sanders' predictions offer a detailed look at each team's prospects, considering factors like squad depth, key signings, and managerial changes. Here’s a breakdown of her predictions:
1. Chelsea
It's difficult to bet against Chelsea, given their remarkable run of six consecutive WSL titles. Despite concerns about injuries to key players like Mayra Ramirez, who is sidelined until January with a hamstring injury, and Lauren James, who is out for a few weeks, Chelsea acted decisively in the transfer market. The big-money acquisition of United States forward Alyssa Thompson on deadline day addresses their immediate attacking concerns. With the eventual return of Australian superstar Sam Kerr, Chelsea's squad remains formidable, possessing both talent and a winning mentality.
2. Arsenal
Arsenal have consistently shown the potential to win the title but have struggled with consistency. Last season, they were significantly off the pace at the start. However, Sanders believes they will be much closer this season, buoyed by their recent Champions League success. Manager Renee Slegers needs to translate that belief into ruthlessness on the pitch. The additions of Olivia Smith and Taylor Hinds have bolstered the squad, but Sanders worries they may still be slightly short in certain areas, giving Chelsea a slight edge.
3. Manchester City
Under the guidance of new manager Andree Jeglertz, Manchester City have made their ambitions clear: they want to challenge for the title and reclaim their spot in the Champions League. After a period of falling behind in recent years, City aims to recapture their previous form. While Sanders needs convincing that they can truly compete with Arsenal and Chelsea, she sees no reason why they can't secure a Champions League spot. The signings of young talents like Switzerland international Iman Beney and England midfielder Grace Clinton add depth and promise to the squad.
4. Manchester United
Manchester United have made some quality additions, including Sweden internationals Julia Zigiotti and Fridolina Rolfo, along with England midfielder Jess Park. However, the loss of Grace Clinton and a perceived lack of depth in certain positions raise concerns. Sanders had hoped to see more ambition in the transfer window to prepare them for Champions League football, particularly compared to the business conducted by other top clubs. While they have a strong team and performed well last season, Sanders doesn't see them as title contenders.
5. London City Lionesses
Placing a newly-promoted side so high might seem like a bold prediction, but London City Lionesses are not your average club. They broke the world-record transfer fee to acquire France international Grace Geyoro for £1.4 million on deadline day, following the earlier acquisition of young Spanish international Lucía Corrales. Their squad boasts numerous players with Champions League and WSL experience, creating a team that, on paper, could challenge the top four. The key question is whether manager Jocelyn Precheur can quickly integrate the new players and create a cohesive unit.
6. Everton
Everton, under new ownership, The Friedkin Group, have also displayed ambition in the transfer window. The move to play at Goodison Park this season is a positive step, and under manager Brian Sorensen, they have a clear playing style. After struggling with injuries and mid-table finishes in recent seasons, Everton now have the depth and quality to push higher up the table.
7. Brighton
Brighton made significant progress last season under manager Dario Vidosic and have added more talent in the transfer window. However, the departure of experienced England international Nikita Parris is a blow, and Sanders believes they still need time for their relatively young squad to develop. While they can cause problems for other teams, consistency will be crucial for maintaining a top-half position.
8. Liverpool
Liverpool have experienced a turbulent six months since the departure of former manager Matt Beard. The delayed appointment of Gareth Taylor as permanent head coach disrupted their summer plans and forced them to scramble for new signings. Despite some good business on deadline day, bringing in Risa Shimizu and making Alejandra Bernabe's move permanent, the loss of last season's top-scorer Smith and vice-captain Hinds to Arsenal is significant. Sanders believes the squad is light and will need reinforcements in January.
9. Aston Villa
Aston Villa were disappointing last season, making it difficult to assess their current position. However, Sanders doesn't expect them to struggle as much this time around. They have made some shrewd signings, including England youth international Lucia Kendall. However, manager Natalia Arroyo is still early in her tenure, and it may take time for her to implement her style of play.
10. West Ham
Rehanne Skinner did a commendable job last season, and West Ham showed improved consistency. They also had a better transfer window, managing to retain key players like top-scorer Shekiera Martinez. However, Sanders believes they are light in midfield and need more depth to challenge higher up the table.
11. Tottenham
Tottenham fans have valid concerns about their squad heading into the new season. A disappointing transfer window saw only defender Toko Koga and forward Cathinka Tandberg added to the roster. New manager Martin Ho faces a significant challenge this season. Despite previous ambitions to close the gap on the top clubs, Spurs have lost ground and acted slowly in the transfer market.
12. Leicester City
Similar to Tottenham, the depth of Leicester City's squad is a concern. The sacking of manager Amandine Miquel just days before the season opener adds to the instability. While a flurry of late arrivals has provided some help, Sanders doesn't believe there is enough quality in the squad to compete consistently. With automatic relegation removed this season, a successful January transfer window may be enough to secure their safety.
As the 2025-26 WSL season approaches, the stage is set for another exciting and unpredictable campaign. Will Chelsea continue their dominance, or will a challenger emerge to claim the title? Only time will tell.
Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie are back for another season of BBC Radio 5 Live's Women's Football Weekly podcast. New episodes drop every Tuesday on BBC Sounds, plus find interviews and extra content from the Women's Super League and beyond on the Women's Football Weekly feed