Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead & 13 Lionesses Who Must Shine in the Upcoming WSL Season for England’s 2027 World Cup Bid

With the 2026-27 Women’s Super League season kicking off soon, many English players are aiming to secure their spots in the Lionesses squad for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Manager Sarina Wiegman is expected to finalize her team around eight months from now, and club performances will heavily influence selections.

The Lionesses finished runners-up at the 2023 World Cup after a narrow 1-0 loss to Spain, and they aim to improve on that next summer. Qualification still hinges on a two-legged playoff against Greece in October, but most believe the team will qualify. Core players like Alessia Russo, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze look set to remain central figures. Yet, several other contenders face pressure to elevate their domestic form to solidify their place.

Goalkeepers Battling for Recognition

• Khiara Keating (Liverpool): After limited game time at Manchester City last season, Keating transferred to Liverpool where she is likely the starting goalkeeper. Previously second-choice behind Hannah Hampton during Euro 2025, Keating needs consistent performances to re-enter Wiegman’s squad.
• Ellie Roebuck (Aston Villa): Once considered the future No.1, Roebuck fell out of favor due to injuries and limited minutes but has returned to the England setup. She faces competition for starts at Villa but could regain her position if she proves her fitness and form.

Young Talent Facing Increased Competition

• Freya Godfrey (London City Lionesses): The 21-year-old was London City’s Player of the Season and broke into England squads last year. With new signings arriving, Godfrey must maintain playing time to keep her World Cup hopes alive.
• Niamh Charles (Manchester City): Transferring from Chelsea, Charles is expected to be first-choice left-back at Man City. Her return to form is vital since England lacks natural options in that position.

Veteran Players Navigating Fitness and Form

• Leah Williamson (Arsenal): England’s captain has struggled with injuries over recent seasons, limiting her appearances. If she can stay fit, she remains an indispensable part of the team.
• Grace Clinton (Manchester City): After a strong loan spell at Tottenham, Clinton’s debut season at Man City was hampered by injuries and inconsistency. City’s coach believes she can make significant progress this year and fight for a World Cup spot.
• Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City): Emerging as a key midfielder for Man City, she needs to build on her breakthrough season amid rising competition in midfield roles.

Forwards Aiming to Rekindle Momentum

• Chloe Kelly (Arsenal): England’s hero at Euro 2025 had an injury-plagued club season, limiting her impact. Kelly aims to stay fit and be a difference-maker again for both Arsenal and England.
• Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea): Despite a bright start, injuries and a goal drought affected her season. With few backup options for Alessia Russo, Beever-Jones must return to form to stay in contention.
• Beth Mead (Manchester City): Recently moved from Arsenal to Man City, Mead hopes to regain a starting role and influence England’s attack at the World Cup.
• Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal): The young forward has yet to play since tearing her ACL in late 2025. Her recovery and potential loan moves will determine her readiness for international duty.
• Ella Morris (Tottenham): After suffering an ACL injury just before Euro 2025, Morris is back and pushing to earn her first England cap. She could provide much-needed depth at right-back.

Midfield and Defensive Challenges

• Ruby Mace (Everton): Known for her defensive work, Mace had a standout season but mainly played center-back, a position already well-stocked in England. A positional change might be necessary for her to break into the national team as a midfielder.

Players Under Pressure in the 2026-27 WSL Season

This upcoming WSL campaign is crucial for many Lionesses eager to prove their worth ahead of the 2027 World Cup. From goalkeepers fighting for backups spots to forwards recovering from setbacks and youngsters hoping for regular minutes, every performance counts. Managers, fans, and pundits alike will watch closely as these 15 players seek to shape their England futures.