FA pushes WSL academy teams into National League despite club revolt

The Football Association approved a divisive plan to place Women's Super League (WSL) academy sides in the third‑tier National League from the 2027‑28 season, while a majority of existing clubs – 52 of the 72 in the Women's National League – publicly opposed the move.

FA approval and reform package

Four professional game academy (PGA) sides will be allowed to compete in the National League but will not be eligible for promotion.

The reform package is described by the FA as designed to strengthen the women's football pyramid, raise standards across the league, and improve the development pathway for young players.

Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption notes there are 72 clubs competing in the FA Women's National League structure.

Club opposition and concerns

In June 2026, fifty‑two of the seventy‑two WNL clubs signed a letter to the FA describing the proposal as morally wrong.

The clubs also claimed board representatives did not consult their clubs before the plan was introduced.

The FA responded that the decision followed an extensive consultation process with clubs and stakeholders.

It noted the reform addresses the lack of competitive minutes young English players receive compared with their European counterparts.

Criteria for selecting the four PGA sides will be developed over the coming months, with the model subject to an annual review.

Additional reforms will see WNL clubs receive central funding for the first time.

The FA will introduce WNL club academies and modify the loan market to encourage professional clubs to loan players to sides in tiers three and four.

The juxtaposition of the FA’s forward‑looking reforms against the strong dissent from the majority of clubs highlights a split in how the women’s football pyramid should evolve.

The upcoming selection criteria and annual review will determine whether the academy integration can reconcile the differing perspectives.