Women's Super League New Season Preview: Unprecedented Uncertainty as the Landscape Could Be Reshaped

If your crystal ball looks a little cloudy, don't worry, you are not alone.

With an increased number of teams, the breaking of title dominance and differences in investment strategies, this could be the most uncertain Women's Super League (WSL) season yet. We may even see the balance of power in the league significantly shift for the first time in years.

London City Lionesses finished sixth last season but signed two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, marking a shift in the league's status quo. Manchester United are entering a new era, with former Hearts manager Eva Olid replacing Marc Skinner, who left in August after five years in charge. Will their focus on youth mean a top-four finish is within reach? After Manchester City ended Chelsea's record run of six consecutive titles, the title race feels more open, but who will become the key figures? As women's football builds toward the 2027 World Cup, who will emerge as the next England star?

Welcome to The Athletic's major preview of the new Women's Super League season.

First, let's look back.

Which team won the league title last season?

Manchester City lifted the Women's Super League trophy for the first time in a decade, ending Chelsea's seemingly unstoppable, record-breaking dynasty of six consecutive league titles.

Who qualified for the Women's Champions League?

Champions Manchester City and runners-up Arsenal entered the league phase directly, while third-placed Chelsea secured a place in the final qualifying round. They confirmed their Champions League qualification on Wednesday after defeating Real Sociedad 6-2 on aggregate.

Who won the Golden Boot?

Manchester City's Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw became the top scorer for the third time in four seasons. The 29-year-old scored 21 goals in 22 matches, becoming the first player to reach 20 goals in a single season three times. Those numbers are why Manchester City invested heavily to extend the Jamaica international's contract for four years. Can anyone beat her?

How to watch

For fans in the UK, every Women's Super League and second-tier league match can be watched via Sky Sports, BBC or YouTube.