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Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead and 13 Lionesses Facing Big WSL Seasons Ahead of England's 2027 World Cup Quest

The upcoming 2026-27 Women’s Super League season marks a critical period for many English players aiming to secure their spots in the Lionesses’ lineup for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. With the tournament less than a year away, the pressure is on to deliver strong club performances.

After finishing as runners-up at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where Spain edged out England 1-0 in the final, Sarina Wiegman’s squad is focused on going one step further next summer. Qualification is still pending, with a two-legged playoff against Greece set for October, but it’s widely expected England will secure their place. While stars like Alessia Russo, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze appear certain to be included, others face an uphill battle to impress ahead of selection.

Goalkeepers Battling for England Roles

  • Khiara Keating (Liverpool): After limited game time at Manchester City last season, Keating has moved to Liverpool, reuniting with former City manager Gareth Taylor. Expected to be Liverpool’s No.1, she aims to prove her worth and reclaim a spot in England’s squad, having been the second-choice goalkeeper behind Hannah Hampton at Euro 2025.
  • Ellie Roebuck (Aston Villa): Returning to the England setup last season after health challenges, Roebuck hopes to maintain her place amid competition from new Aston Villa signings. Her performances at Villa will be key to making her first World Cup squad.

Players Needing Strong Club Seasons

  • Freya Godfrey (London City Lionesses): Despite being a regular in England squads last year and winning London City’s Player of the Season, increased competition following new signings puts her World Cup hopes at risk if her minutes drop.
  • Niamh Charles (Manchester City): Newly signed by Man City from Chelsea, Charles is expected to fill the left-back role England has struggled to fill consistently. Her form this season will be crucial for both club and country.
  • Leah Williamson (Arsenal): England’s captain, Williamson has battled injuries over recent years, limiting her appearances. If she stays fit, she remains a cornerstone for the Lionesses heading into the World Cup.
  • Grace Clinton (Manchester City): After a tough first season at City marked by injuries and inconsistent performances, Clinton seeks to establish consistency and claim a spot in England’s squad.
  • Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City): A breakthrough player last season, she must build on her progress amid stiff midfield competition, especially with City back in the Champions League.
  • Chloe Kelly (Arsenal): The hero of England’s Euro 2025 campaign struggled with injuries during the last club season. Staying fit and regaining form will be vital for Kelly as she aims to shine again for both Arsenal and England.
  • Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea): A promising striker, her 2025-26 season was marred by injuries and inconsistent goal-scoring. England need her fit and firing to provide backup to Alessia Russo.
  • Beth Mead (Manchester City): After leaving Arsenal for Man City, Mead looks to regain a starting role and push for a bigger impact in England’s attack.
  • Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal): Sidelined with an ACL injury since October, her recovery and return to fitness are crucial for England’s forward options.
  • Ella Morris (Tottenham): After suffering an ACL injury just after her first senior England call-up, Morris is back and aiming to provide depth at right-back, a position England currently lack options in.
  • Ruby Mace (Everton): Despite a strong season defensively, her path into England’s midfield is blocked unless she changes roles, as the squad has plenty of centre-backs but needs midfield depth.

Players to Watch in the 2026-27 WSL Season

  • Khiara Keating - Liverpool, looking to regain England place as a goalkeeper
  • Ellie Roebuck - Aston Villa, fighting for World Cup squad spot post-health issues
  • Freya Godfrey - London City Lionesses, battling for forward minutes amid new signings
  • Niamh Charles - Manchester City, expected left-back starter
  • Leah Williamson - Arsenal, England captain aiming for fitness
  • Grace Clinton - Manchester City, seeking consistent performances
  • Laura Blindkilde Brown - Manchester City, midfield breakthrough star
  • Chloe Kelly - Arsenal, recovering from injuries
  • Aggie Beever-Jones - Chelsea, striker needing fitness and form
  • Beth Mead - Manchester City, transitioning from Arsenal
  • Michelle Agyemang - Arsenal, returning from ACL injury
  • Ella Morris - Tottenham, defender aiming to add squad depth
  • Ruby Mace - Everton, defensive star considering midfield shift

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