The Football Association Women’s National League board has approved a proposal to allow four academy sides from Women’s Super League clubs to join the third tier from 2027. The plans will now be discussed further by the Football Association, with a final decision expected in July.
The proposal includes an investment package of about £1 million, enhancements to legal and medical support in the loan system, and playoffs in tier four. However, plans for a mid-season split, similar to the system in Scotland, have reportedly been dropped.
The move has divided opinion. Manchester City managing director Charlotte O’Neill expressed support, saying a B team in the national pyramid would be hugely beneficial for the Lionesses. However, lower-league clubs have voiced concerns, with some coaches accusing the FA of rehashing a scrapped plan. Portsmouth supporters’ club chair Ian Chiverton accused authorities of pandering to WSL teams.
Under the scheme, four professional game academies would be chosen based on academy strength and proportion of English talent, with a three-year licence. They would be prohibited from promotion to the second tier but could be relegated. Other WSL clubs’ academies would remain in their existing leagues.
FA director of women’s football Sue Day defended the plans, stating that the game is at a crucial turning point and that a stronger pathway produces better players and strengthens the national team.
