Football NewsThe GuardianUnverified source· 3 Sept 2026
WSL expands to 14 teams with wide-open title race
A summer of change sets the stage for a thrilling new WSL season.

Competition
Women's Super League
Expansion
14 teams, three new sides
Defending champions
Manchester City
What happened. The WSL season kicks off Friday with 14 teams, three new clubs, and a wide-open title race as Manchester City aim to retain their crown.
- Players had a proper summer break with no major tournament for first time in six years.
- Managers had full pre-season with all available players for first time in over five years.
- League Cup changes and huge transfers mark the new campaign.
The expanded league promises more competition and excitement from the start.
In this story
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