Football Season Guide

The WSL debutants London City Lionesses become the first-ever women-only team, not a branch of a men team, to play in the top flight. The Lionesses won the Championship by just 2 points after 13 wins and only 3 defeats in the 20 rounds. 21-year-old striker Isobel Goodwin was among the main reasons for this with her 16 goals in these 20 matches. She was so effective because the Swedish veterans Kosovare Asllani, 36-years-old, and Sofia Jakobsson, 35-years-old, produced 14 assists between them. The Lionesses are coached by French specialist Jocelyn Prêcheur (ex-PSG) and they have very good depth for a newly promoted team. Owned by one of the richest owners, the American billionaire that owns them also owns French giants Lyon and Washington Spirit, and already adding some exciting new players to their squad they will seek an impressive debut season at WSL level. Vastly experienced playmaker Daniëlle van de Donk, 2-time Champions League winner, arrived from Lyon this summer and she will provide even more support for the Swedish veterans up front. Completely revamped the defence too. Signed 7 new defenders already. Kennedy and Linari are very experienced centre-backs. Jana Fernandez won 3 Champions League titles with Barcelona and she will be a great fit at right-back. With 10 players age 30 and older the Lionesses are not the typical debutants one can expect. Their experienced squad, rich owner and battle-hardened manager make them a team that is more likely to push for a top 6 finish than to struggle in the bottom of the table.