For the first time in nearly a decade, Chelsea’s grip on the Women’s Super League (WSL) title looks genuinely under threat.
Following recent WSL fixtures, fans have been left stunned by how dramatically the table has shifted ahead of the 2025/26 season. As it stands, Manchester City sit eleven points clear at the top, while Chelsea hold only a one-point advantage over Arsenal. After eight years of Chelsea dominance, the league suddenly feels wide open — and far less predictable.
Manchester City’s surge has completely changed the title conversation. Their consistent dominance in both results and game control has separated them from the pack. Last weekend, City secured an additional three points with a 2–1 win over London City Lionesses, while chaos unfolded at Stamford Bridge as Arsenal beat Chelsea 2–1, sending shockwaves through the league and narrowing the gap between second and third place to just one point.
Shifting Power Between Blue and Red
This season has marked a clear shift away from the predictability that once defined the WSL. Manchester City’s calm, controlled gameplay and relentless ability to collect three points week after week has set a new standard.
Chelsea started the season strongly, with standout performances from players such as Sam Kerr, Lucy Bronze, and Ellie Carpenter, maintaining their usual authority. However, cracks have begun to show. Arsenal, boosted by impactful new signings, capitalised on this at the Bridge, with players like Frida Maanum and Alessia Russo continuing to shape the league and build their own legacies.
Manchester United, despite missing Ella Toone in recent fixtures, have not faltered. Key contributors such as Elisabeth Terland, a vital attacking presence, and Jess Park, whose intelligence and footwork control midfield battles, have kept United firmly in contention. With proper investment into the squad, Marc Skinner’s side would likely have run their city neighbours closer. A missed opportunity by Sir Jim et al.
Manchester City: The Team to Beat
City’s achievements so far this season have probably been helped by a lack of UEFA Women’s Champions League action, and this fresh squad has been ruthless in front of goal, scoring twenty and conceding only three in reply in the last six matches, which include a 1-0 Subway Cup defeat to Chelsea.
At the heart of City’s dominance is Alex Greenwood, whose leadership and defensive authority have anchored a side playing with tactical intelligence and confidence. Game after game, City have overwhelmed opponents with structured buildup and relentless pressing.
Up front, Khadija “Bunny” Shaw continues to terrorise defences and looks firmly on course for another Golden Boot-level season in 2025/26. Her consistency has been central to City’s rise.
Vivianne Miedema’s presence in City’s attack line brings intimidation, creativity, and ruthlessness — particularly ahead of the upcoming Arsenal vs Manchester City clash on 8 February, a fixture many Gunners will find emotionally difficult.
Another exciting contributor is young forward Lily Murphy, whose increased minutes this season have highlighted her immense potential. Despite her age, she has played a significant role in maintaining City’s commanding points lead.
Recent Results That Changed Everything
On 1 February, Manchester City delivered a statement performance with a 5–1 victory over Chelsea, extending their lead to eleven points and raising serious doubts about the existence of a genuine title race. Kerolin scored a sensational hat-trick, while Miedema added the final goal, sealing a humiliating defeat for the reigning champions on home turf.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s victory over Liverpool saw them rise into second place — the club’s highest WSL position to date — overtaking traditional powerhouses Chelsea and Arsenal.
City’s demolition of Chelsea was more than just a win; it was a message. With a long unbeaten run and minimal points dropped, Manchester City have established a lead so dominant that other teams now appear to be battling for second place rather than chasing the top.
Chelsea’s six-year reign as WSL champions may not officially be over yet — but it is undeniably hanging by a thread. Manchester City have redefined the league’s balance of power, and unless something extraordinary happens, the title looks destined for the blue side of Manchester.
The popular take away is that this star-studded Chelsea side have too much to do and it is no longer a case of who can catch City, but who will finish behind them and this is a great thing for English football as it keeps the league fresh. Sorry blues!
