'We'll be ready' - who are the WSL newcomers?

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reported that the 2026-27 Women’s Super League season will feature three promoted clubs for the first time in the competition’s expanded 14-team format: Birmingham City, Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic. The season begins on Friday, with the promoted trio due to start their campaigns on Sunday. The article frames each side’s prospects after a dramatic WSL 2 promotion battle and a separate play-off that helped determine who would reach the top flight.

Birmingham return after four seasons away after winning WSL 2 on goal difference, having been strong both in attack and defence. BBC Sport noted that head coach Amy Merricks has added several signings, including former Manchester United defender Millie Turner as captain, while striker Lily Crosthwaite was named WSL 2 player of the year. Crystal Palace are back after only one season in the second tier, having been one of the hardest teams to beat last year. Their attack was led by Kirsty Howat and Abbie Larkin, and they have added Bethany England, one of the league’s most experienced scorers.

Charlton Athletic also earned promotion after finishing near the top of WSL 2 and then beating Leicester City in the inaugural promotion play-off on penalties after a goalless draw. They were among the division’s best defensive teams, although goals were harder to come by. The club has brought in Spanish midfielder Paula Partido on loan. BBC Sport said statistical projections suggest the three newcomers may be closely matched with other clubs battling near the lower end of the table, making survival a key early-season storyline.