The Women’s Super League returns this weekend.
Chelsea are looking to defend their title but Arsenal have strengthened significantly over the course of the summer, making for a fascinating new WSL campaign.
There is strength throughout the division too, meaning none of the bigger name teams are in for an easy ride.
Standard Sport’s Simon Collings runs through his predictions…
Who will win the title?
Arsenal made five big signings in the summer, including England striker Alessia Russo, and have the squad depth to pip Chelsea to the crown. The Gunners are also already out of the Champions League after losing to Paris FC in the qualifying rounds, so have a clearer schedule than the Blues.
Two other Champions League spots?
Chelsea and Manchester City. The Blues could win their fifth title in a row, but Emma Hayes will be most desperate to finally win Europe’s top prize. Manchester United will push City close for the other Champions League spot, but could struggle after losing Alessia Russo and Spain full-back Ona Batlle.
Top scorer?
Sam Kerr had a disappointing World Cup due to injury, but is primed to bounce back. The Australian won the Golden Boot in her first two seasons at Chelsea, but was beaten to it by Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw last year. Arsenal’s Beth Mead is now fit and in the mix.
Best summer signing?
Hard to look past United bringing in Brazil forward Geyse Da Silva Ferreira. Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar should shine at Aston Villa, while Sjoeke Nusken is tipped for big things at Chelsea. Arsenal have caught the eye by bringing in England striker Alessia Russo and Australia midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross.
One to watch?
USA forward Catarina Macario should be a star at Chelsea after joining from Lyon, but needs time after a year out with a knee injury. England youngster Jess Park, who just missed out on the World Cup, could have a breakthrough year at City after spending last season on loan at Everton.
Who will struggle?
Newly-promoted Bristol City have a young squad that look set to struggle. West Ham are an unknown quantity under new manager Rehanne Skinner and their squad looks thin. Leicester were favourites to go down at Christmas last year, but manager Willie Kirk did a great job to keep them up.
I’m most looking forward to…
The League being more competitive than ever. The recruitment across the league has been so impressive because clubs are now financially backing their teams. Indeed, Brighton signed Germany forward Pauline Bremer from Champions League runners-up Wolfsburg. There are no easy games for the top teams any more..
