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

As the 2026-27 Women’s Super League season kicks off, several English players are aiming to shine in order to secure their spots in the Lionesses squad for the upcoming 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. With Sarina Wiegman preparing her team roughly eight months ahead of the tournament, key players need strong domestic seasons to either break into or maintain their places.

The Lionesses finished as runners-up in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, falling 1-0 to Spain in the final. Qualification for 2027 is yet to be finalized but expected after the upcoming two-legged tie with Greece in October. Many stars from the 2023 squad such as Alessia Russo, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze seem likely to be mainstays, but this season will be critical for others fighting for their spots.

Goalkeepers: Khiara Keating, Ellie Roebuck, and Anna Moorhouse

• Khiara Keating (Liverpool): After limited action at Manchester City last season, Keating’s move to Liverpool reunites her with Gareth Taylor and offers a chance to become first-choice keeper again. She was England’s second-choice goalkeeper at Euro 2025 and must regain consistent game time to push back into Wiegman’s plans.
• Ellie Roebuck (Aston Villa): Once viewed as England’s future No.1, Roebuck fell out of favor due to health issues and lack of minutes. Recently recovered from a stroke-like event, she’s competing for starting time amid new signings at Villa. Winning that battle could elevate her chances for a World Cup debut.
• Anna Moorhouse: Holding steady since late 2024, Moorhouse’s regular playing time in the US with Orlando Pride has kept her firmly in the picture behind Mary Earps and others.

Outfield Players Facing Key Seasons

• Freya Godfrey (London City Lionesses): The 21-year-old impressed last year and earned a contract extension through 2029, but London City’s influx of star players threatens her minutes. Keeping her place will be vital to remain in contention for the national team.
• Niamh Charles (Manchester City): Switching from Chelsea to Man City, Charles is expected to cement the left-back spot. England has struggled for natural options there, so her form could solve a longstanding problem.
• Leah Williamson (Arsenal): England’s captain when fit, Williamson has faced injuries recently, limiting her appearances. Her fitness this season will determine her influence heading into the World Cup.
• Grace Clinton (Manchester City): After a promising 2023-24 season, Clinton’s first year at City was hampered by injuries and inconsistent performances. With renewed trust from her coach, consistent play could put her back in England’s plans.
• Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City): Emerging as a key midfielder last season, Brown faces competition from new teammates but will benefit from City’s return to the Champions League. Sustaining form could secure her a World Cup spot.
• Chloe Kelly (Arsenal): The Euro 2025 hero struggled with injuries last season, limiting her club appearances. Focused on fitness, Kelly aims to rediscover her impact and be ready for England duties.
• Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea): Strong early form gave way to injuries and goal droughts. With few backup options for Alessia Russo in England’s forward line, Beever-Jones’ fitness and consistency are crucial.
• Beth Mead (Manchester City): Moving from Arsenal to City, Mead hopes to reclaim a starting role for England. Versatile in attack, she faces tough competition but remains eager to make a major impact.
• Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal): A standout at Euro 2025, Agyemang’s ACL injury last October sidelines her for much of the season. Her return and game time will be closely watched for England’s forward depth.
• Ella Morris (Tottenham): After an ACL setback during her first England camp call-up, Morris is recovering well and aims to add depth at right-back, a position where England lacks options.
• Ruby Mace (Everton): Despite an excellent season highlighted by interceptions and tackles, Mace’s primary role as a centre-back clashes with England’s needs. A position change might be necessary to break into the squad.

Summary of Players and Their Clubs

• Khiara Keating: Liverpool
• Ellie Roebuck: Aston Villa
• Anna Moorhouse: Orlando Pride (USA)
• Freya Godfrey: London City Lionesses
• Niamh Charles: Manchester City
• Leah Williamson: Arsenal
• Grace Clinton: Manchester City
• Laura Blindkilde Brown: Manchester City
• Chloe Kelly: Arsenal
• Aggie Beever-Jones: Chelsea
• Beth Mead: Manchester City
• Michelle Agyemang: Arsenal
• Ella Morris: Tottenham
• Ruby Mace: Everton

Kelly on her recent struggles: "I had big goals to do amazing things at Arsenal in my first full season and I was a little disappointed I wasn’t able to. I think I needed this summer to work on myself physically, balancing working in the gym, on the pitch and getting downtime. I am in a really good place at the moment. My main goal is to stay fit and fresh all season and be ready when called upon."

Morris on her ambitions: "Right now, I just need to focus on starting at Spurs and getting as many minutes as I can to showcase myself to Sarina. But obviously, I know there’s a World Cup on the horizon, so I think any player would jump at the opportunity to go to that. It’s definitely in the back of my head, but I know what I need to achieve first to be able to get the merit to go."