Irish stars boost Manchester City’s title defence as WSL opens

Eleven Irish internationals are set to feature in the Barclays Women’s Super League as Manchester City begin the season as defending champions, with Katie McCabe joining Chelsea and Aoibhe Brennan earmarked for City’s U21 side, marking a slight rise from ten last term.

Irish contingent spans the league

Eleven Irish internationals are registered across eight of the fourteen WSL clubs, with two each at newcomers Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic and additional representation at Brighton & Hove Albion. The squad list also includes Courtney Brosnan, Katie McCabe, Anna Patten, Aoibhe Brennan, Caitlin Hayes and Emily Murphy.

Manchester City enter the campaign as reigning WSL and FA Cup champions, having secured their first league title in a decade last season. Golden‑boot winner Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw spearheaded the attack under manager Andrée Jeglertz, and retaining her services is deemed vital for a back‑to‑back bid.

Chelsea have bolstered their ranks with the arrival of Katie McCabe, whose experience is expected to lift the side after a disappointing previous campaign. At Arsenal, manager Sonia Bompastor is reshaping the squad, adding England midfielder Georgia Stanway and entrusting Renée Slegers to chase the club’s first title since 2018/19.

London City Lionesses made a high‑profile splash by signing two‑time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas alongside goalkeeper Mary Earps and defender Mapi Leon, though the project may need time to translate investment into results.

Manchester United operate under new manager Eva Olid after Mark Skinner’s departure, while Brighton saw Dario Vidosic depart for the NWSL and promptly appointed Arturo Ruiz. Irish duo Caitlin Hayes and Emily Murphy remain key figures for the Seagulls as they aim to build on recent progress.

Tottenham Hotspur continue their rise under Martin Ho, Liverpool target improvement after flirting with relegation, and Aston Villa rely on centre‑back Anna Patten, who celebrated her 100th appearance last season and is entering her fifth year after an initial loan from Arsenal in 2023.

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