Facing Challenges: London City’s Ambitious Journey in the WSL

At the beginning of the current season, London City FC faced immense challenges in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Competing against formidable teams such as Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City in their initial four matches, and later confronting reigning champions Chelsea in their seventh game, the squad found itself in a difficult position, suffering four consecutive defeats with an aggregate score of 15-3. This marked a challenging initiation for the team.

Nevertheless, there were moments of promise during these fixtures, particularly when they managed to take the lead on the opening weekend against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, demonstrating their potential by troubling the reigning European champions early in the match.

While one might argue that the significant financial investment made during the summer should have translated to immediate success—especially considering this is their debut season in the WSL—it’s important to recognize that the considerable turnover in the squad meant that the team was not only adjusting to a new competitive environment but also to a newly formed unit.

Indeed, the starting XI that Head Coach Precheur fielded against Arsenal featured eight changes compared to the lineup from London City’s last match of their promotion-winning season. This overhaul was the result of a summer transfer window during which the club made 17 signings and parted ways with 13 players who had helped them ascend to the top flight. Such an extensive reshuffling naturally hindered immediate cohesion.

Despite these early struggles, the aspirations within the squad remained high. Veteran playmaker Kosovare Asllani expressed her desire for the team to achieve a top-four finish, stating, “Personally, I would not be happy for us to be a mid-table team at the end of the season. A good season would be top four.” Similarly, Japanese international Saki Kumagai, a seasoned player with multiple Champions League titles, emphasized the goal of pushing for a top-three or top-four finish to position themselves for future Champions League qualifications.

However, the current landscape of the WSL, dominated by Chelsea, Arsenal, and the Manchester clubs, presents a formidable challenge for newcomers like London City. United’s quick ascent into the ‘big four’ after their promotion in 2019 offers a glimmer of hope, but even they finished their inaugural season 13 points adrift of the established top teams. In contrast, London City has so far averaged 1.36 points per game after 11 matches, positioning them six points behind fourth-placed United at the season’s halfway mark—an encouraging return given the upheaval.

This performance aligns with the vision set forth by the club’s management. Kang, one of the primary figures at the club, stated, “Everyone has the excitement and the intent, but we’re not taking this as a one-year project. We want to build the right foundations… We have an aspiration to be at the top of the game.”

Precheur echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of patience in developing a cohesive team in one of the toughest leagues globally. He acknowledged the need for adaptation, stating that success cannot be achieved overnight or even within a single season, despite the influx of new players.

As the season progressed, London City faced setbacks, including a pair of disappointing losses to Brighton and Leicester City to close the year. Notably, the decision to part ways with Precheur was not attributed solely to results; rather, it stemmed from concerns about his style of play, which the club felt would not foster long-term success. This raises the question of whether such a mid-season change was prudent, especially during a critical season for the club.

Eder Maestre, who previously achieved success with Tenerife, has now taken the helm. His appointment reflects the club’s ambition for a distinct style of play moving forward. However, the transition necessitates further adaptation for a team already undergoing significant changes. Maestre’s ability to quickly familiarize himself with the team dynamics, the league’s demands, and a new language will be essential as they strive for the results and performance the club desires.

His initial matches present a mix of opportunity and challenge, beginning with a game against bottom-placed Liverpool, followed by a FA Cup encounter against second-tier Sunderland. However, the subsequent fixtures against Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea will demand immediate results and may test the team’s ability to implement a new strategy effectively.

Ultimately, this decision reflects the club’s bold ambitions. While opinions may suggest that this coaching change could hinder progress at this pivotal stage, only time will reveal if London City’s strategic choices align with their long-term goals.