Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead & 13 Lionesses Eye Strong WSL Seasons Ahead of England’s 2027 World Cup Campaign

England Lionesses Prepare for Crucial WSL Season Ahead of 2027 World Cup

As the 2026-27 Women’s Super League season kicks off, several English players will be aiming to secure their spots in Sarina Wiegman’s squad for the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Brazil. With qualification matches against Greece looming, the pressure is on to impress at club level to earn a place in the national team.

The Lionesses finished as runners-up at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, narrowly losing 1-0 to Spain in the final. Many from that squad, including Alessia Russo, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze, look set to feature again. But the focus now turns to others who need to make an impact this season to boost their chances.

Goalkeepers Competing for the No.2 Spot

• Khiara Keating (Liverpool): After limited game time at Manchester City last season, Keating moved to Liverpool to become their first-choice goalkeeper under former City boss Gareth Taylor. Recognized as England’s second-choice keeper during Euro 2025, she needs consistent performances to return to Wiegman’s plans.
• Ellie Roebuck (Aston Villa): Once seen as the heir to the Lionesses’ goalkeeping role, Roebuck battled health issues and competition last season. Now recovered and back in England camps, she faces a fight to secure starting minutes amid new competition at Aston Villa.

Youth and Competition at London City Lionesses

• Freya Godfrey: The 21-year-old impressed last season and earned a contract through 2029. However, the arrival of star Kadidiatou Diani means Godfrey must fight to maintain her playing time to keep her spot in the England squad.

Defensive Changes and Challenges

• Niamh Charles (Manchester City): Switching from Chelsea, Charles is expected to claim the left-back role at City. Her return to form is vital for both club and country, especially given England’s ongoing struggle to find a settled left-back.
• Leah Williamson (Arsenal): England’s captain has faced fitness battles since an ACL injury ruled her out of the 2023 World Cup. Limited to just two WSL starts last season due to various strains, her ability to stay healthy will determine her influence ahead of 2027.

Midfield and Forward Prospects

• Grace Clinton (Manchester City): After a strong loan spell and debut season at Manchester United, Clinton’s first year at City fell short amid injuries and positional challenges. City’s coach expects her to find consistency this season, which will be key for her England ambitions.
• Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City): A breakout player last season, Blindkilde Brown earned two England starts in 2026. With competition growing, she must maintain form in the Champions League campaign to keep her place.
• Chloe Kelly (Arsenal): England’s hero at Euro 2025 struggled with injuries last season, limiting her club appearances. Focused on fitness and fresh form, Kelly aims to replicate her impact from the Euros into the next World Cup cycle.
• Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea): After a promising start, injuries hampered Beever-Jones’ season. With few backup options for Alessia Russo in the England attack, a healthy and productive season would greatly benefit Wiegman’s options.
• Beth Mead (Manchester City): Following a switch from Arsenal, Mead seeks to reclaim a starting role. Despite strong competition on the wings at City, her versatility and experience may give her a key role heading into Brazil.
• Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal): Sidelined by an ACL injury since October, Agyemang’s recovery timeline suggests she could return this season. Her return to fitness and playing time will be critical for her World Cup hopes.

Emerging Talents and Squad Depth

• Ella Morris (Tottenham): Called up to England before Euro 2025, Morris missed the tournament due to an ACL injury. Back fit now, she could provide much-needed depth at right-back, a position where England lacks alternatives.
• Ruby Mace (Everton): Despite being one of the top performers in tackles and interceptions last season, Mace’s primary role as a centre-back limits her England opportunities. A potential positional shift might be necessary for her to break into the midfield-starved Lionesses squad.

This season presents a pivotal opportunity for these players to influence their international careers. With the 2027 Women’s World Cup approaching, club performances will play a significant role in shaping Sarina Wiegman’s squad choices.