Chelsea Women have released their projected 2026/27 squad, a roster reshaped by Phil Radley’s summer activity and the exit of several veterans. The Blues aim to erase a six‑point deficit to Manchester City, who sit atop the FA WSL after finishing the 2025 season with 49 points, 15 wins, four draws and three losses, while Chelsea recorded a WWWWD run.
Which players are set to guard the net?
Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton returns as the first‑choice stopper, backed by Llivia Peng and veteran Becky Spencer. With Femke Liefting out on loan, the trio is expected to remain unchanged, offering stability after a season where Chelsea conceded only 20 goals while scoring 44, a +24 goal difference.
How does the back line look after key exits?
The defense reshapes around Katie McCabe, signed on a free from Arsenal, and seasoned centre‑backs Naomi Girma, Veerle Buurman, Nathalie Bjorn, Kadeisha Buchanan, Lucy Bronze, and Ellie Carpenter. Former stalwart Millie Bright’s retirement and Niamh Charles’s move to Manchester City left gaps that McCabe is meant to fill. Newcomer Nelly Las may struggle for minutes on the right flank, given the depth of the existing roster.
Who will drive the midfield engine?
Midfield anchor Keira Walsh and Erin Cuthbert are expected to start most matches, operating in a 4‑3‑3 system. Wieke Kaptein and Sjoeke Nusken provide versatility in the central roles, while Japanese midfielder Manaka Matsukubo joins as a fresh option. Academy graduate Lexi Potter remains the go‑to substitute to relieve Walsh late in games.
Which attackers are poised to boost the front line?
The attack sees a major overhaul: former stars Guro Reiten, Sam Kerr, and Johanna Rytting‑Kaneryd have departed. New signing Melvine Malard arrives from Manchester United, while Mayra Ramirez returns from injury and Maika Hamano comes back after a loan at Tottenham Hotspur. Aggie Beever‑Jones, Sandy Baltimore, Lauren James, and Alyssa Thompson are expected to retain regular spots, forming a forward line that hopes to improve on the previous season’s output.
What does this mean for Chelsea Women’s title chase?
With the projected squad now in place, Chelsea Women aim to convert their recent form into a sustained challenge. The team finished the 2025 campaign three points behind Manchester City, and the new arrivals are tasked with tightening the defence and adding firepower to close the six‑point gap. If the projected lineup gels quickly, the Blues could return to the top of the table and reclaim the dominance they once enjoyed.
