The UK’s women’s football scene is buzzing with talent. From rising stars to seasoned legends, here are seven players ready to shine in the WCL and WSL this season.
1. Lauren James – Chelsea FC Women
Position: Forward
The 2025–26 season is Lauren James’s moment to dominate. After a standout performance at Euro 2025, where she led England to the semi-finals, she returns to Chelsea with sky-high confidence. Known for her dribbling, flair, and technical brilliance, James is expected to be the heartbeat of Emma Hayes’ post-era team. With Chelsea vying for another WSL title and a deep Champions League run, James will be the focal point. At only 23, she’s already one of the most exciting attacking players in the world, and this season could mark her true global breakout.
2. Asisat Oshoala – Manchester United Women
Position: Striker
After joining Manchester United in early 2025, Nigerian striker Asisat Oshoala has brought pace, power, and experience to the Red Devils’ frontline. With four UEFA Women’s Champions League goals already this year, she’s helping United push for a historic European run. Her time at Barcelona Femeni sharpened her finishing and movement in the box, and her impact in the WSL has been immediate. Expect Oshoala to be a top scorer this season and a major threat in both domestic and continental fixtures.
3. Frida Maanum – Arsenal WFC
Position: Midfielder
Frida Maanum has transformed into a midfield general for Arsenal. Despite her health scare during the Conti Cup final in early 2024, she made a remarkable recovery and has returned even stronger. Her long-range goals and clever through-balls have made her irreplaceable. With Arsenal hungry for a WSL title and serious Champions League contention, Maanum’s engine and football IQ will be essential. Her leadership and ability to dictate tempo make her one of the most influential players in the league.
4. Guro Reiten – Chelsea FC Women
Position: Winger
Often underrated, Guro Reiten’s contributions are impossible to ignore. She consistently delivers assists and vital goals from the flanks. Reiten’s sharp crosses and intelligent off-the-ball runs are crucial for Chelsea’s attacking rhythm. In the 2025–26 season, she is set to take on even more responsibility, particularly in Europe, where Chelsea are aiming for their first Champions League title. She remains one of the most technically sound players in the WSL and a dependable match-winner.
5. Mary Earps – Manchester United Women
Position: Goalkeeper
Mary Earps continues to be the safest pair of hands in England. A fan favourite and leader for club and country, her shot-stopping heroics keep United in tight matches. The 2025–26 season sees her aiming for a Golden Glove repeat, while also leading United’s European ambitions. Earps was instrumental in England’s Euro 2025 campaign and her influence at club level is just as significant. Whether it’s a last-minute penalty save or organising the backline, she’s indispensable.
6. Bunny Shaw – Manchester City Women
Position: Forward
Khadija “Bunny” Shaw is a goalscoring machine. After breaking the WSL scoring record in the 2024–25 season with 25 goals, the Jamaican forward has her sights set on European glory with Man City. Her strength, aerial ability, and ruthless finishing make her one of the most feared strikers in the game. Shaw has matured into a leader for the Cityzens, and her performances are key to their double aspirations this season. If City go far in the Champions League, it’ll be thanks to Shaw’s firepower.
7. Grace Clinton – Tottenham Hotspur Women
Position: Midfielder
After a breakout season with Tottenham in 2024–25, Grace Clinton is one of the brightest young English talents. Her loan spells have paid off, and now she’s a full-fledged Spurs starter, dictating play from midfield and chipping in with goals and assists. Clinton’s creativity, vision, and work rate have caught the eye of national selectors too. With Spurs pushing for a top-four WSL finish and their first Champions League qualification, Clinton is at the heart of the action. She embodies the future of English football.
Why These Players Matter in 2025–26
The Women’s Super League and Champions League have never been more competitive. With record attendances, TV deals, and sponsorships, these tournaments are now on par with the biggest stages in global women’s sport. These seven players reflect a powerful blend of established brilliance and emerging stardom.
- Homegrown talents like Lauren James and Grace Clinton are driving the next generation of England’s national team.
- International icons like Oshoala and Shaw bring global flair to the WSL, helping the league become a true magnet for worldwide attention.
- Veterans like Mary Earps and Guro Reiten offer experience and stability, often deciding high-pressure matches with their consistency and poise.
- Creative dynamos like Maanum are showing that midfield mastery is just as crucial as goal-scoring.
What to Expect This Season
- Chelsea and Arsenal are likely to challenge for the WSL title, while Manchester United and Man City aim to shake up the top two.
- In the Champions League, Chelsea and Arsenal remain England’s best hope, and all eyes will be on their quarter-final and semi-final runs.
- Manchester United’s European journey is worth watching, as they are finally building depth and star power under their new management.
The 2025–26 season is not just about trophies; it’s about legacies, growth, and redefining the standards of women’s football in the UK. With this mix of power, pace, and precision, the stars of today are building the foundations for a more exciting tomorrow.