Football Season Guide

Ended a 10-year wait for a WSL title last term. Lifted the trophy for the 1st time since 2016. Scored 62 goals in 22 rounds, by far the most in the league. Had the most wins 18. “Bunny” Shaw won her 3rd Golden Boot award with her 21 league goals, stayed 1 short of the all-time league record. This was 1st season in charge for the Swedish coach Andrée Jeglertz. His expansive attacking approach made City almost impossible to contain and more of the same is guaranteed this year. The only significant departure this summer was that of winger Kerolin. She had 9 goals and 7 assists in the WSL last season. Yet, City have an overload of talent on the flanks so her leaving hardly weakens the team. Experienced AM Beth Mead and new LB Charles are strong incoming moves. Both arrived from direct rivals Arsenal and Chelsea. They will provide experience and depth. Both most likely will feature often in the Champions League. Remains to be seen if the hugely prolific striker Shaw will stay at the club. For now she is there but there had been multiple bids for her from abroad already. If Shaw stays City will likely be again the highest-scoring team in the league. The main concern regarding title defence is how well the Sky Blues will balance the load of added Champions League midweek fixtures. City were the only team of the top 4 last season without European football and they made the most of that. Now they will have to rely more on their depth. Not all supporting players are of the same level as the very strong main core of 14-15 players.