You may have seen Matt Hughes’ report in The Guardian this morning claiming that the Women’s Professional Leagues Ltd (WPLL) are today in discussion with all twenty-three clubs the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) and the Championship to discuss a range of issues, with a key proposal under discussion being the expansion of both divisions. However, a significant caveat is that, at least initially, there would be no relegation between the two divisions.
At a time when clubs across the women’s football pyramid are striving to grow their fanbases and boost attendance, this proposal has sparked considerable backlash. Many on social media have been vocal in their anger, viewing it as a step in the wrong direction and questioning the integrity of the women’s game.
I have often spoken about the gap between the WSL and other clubs within the pyramid, where a glass ceiling prevents many teams from progressing without Premier League backing. These proposals seem to replace that glass ceiling with a concrete one.
Matt’s the article suggests that this closed system may not be permanent, the question remains: how can clubs be expected to compete with the establishment after being locked out for so long?
We’ve previously discussed proposed changes to the FA Women’s National League (FA WNL) and the lower tiers, including the introduction of a play-off match for promotion and the implementation of Professional Game Academies (PGAs) and Reserve teams. That has been met with equal levels of disapproval from fans.
There’s little debate that women’s football has outgrown its current structure, and a comprehensive review is long overdue. It appears that we will have a full reform of the women’s football pyramid is expected for the 2026/27 season.
I am disappointed that these proposed changes appear to prioritise strengthening the WSL and the Lionesses rather than supporting the base of the pyramid. I come back to the saying championed by Lewes Football Club, ‘a rising tide lifts all ships.’
The article goes on to state, “The rationale behind the proposal is that removing the threat of relegation would encourage owners to invest and help develop a more competitive league, which is currently dominated by Chelsea, who have won the past five WSL titles.”
But would this really be the case? Many clubs, particularly those with Premier League backing, already have the resources to elevate their women’s teams, yet they choose not to invest. There is no reason why a club like Aston Villa could not challenge for a UEFA Women’s Champions League spot next year if its hierarchy allocated even a fraction of its prize money to the women’s team. A modest increase in investment could drastically shake up the WSL’s status quo.
I wish that those in positions of power recognised that increased funding throughout the pyramid will have that desired effect of raising the standard of football. I am not suggesting handouts but prize money needs to be increased across the board.
While the WPLL seems eager to capitalize on the rapid growth of women’s football, perhaps patience is required. The game should be allowed to develop organically through increased exposure via television and news coverage. Simple measures, such as the BBC reporting FA WNL scores and goal scorers in their results sections, would significantly enhance the profile of teams outside the WSL.
I sincerely hope that the clubs involved in today’s discussions see the bigger picture, reject the idea of a closed league, and ensure that this is the last we hear of such a proposal.
