A proposal to allow four Women's Super League (WSL) academy sides to join the third tier from 2027 has been approved by the FA Women's National League (FAWNL) board. The league's management met FAWNL representatives on Friday and were told of the board's backing. The plans will now be ratified by the FA, following a decision that has sparked heated debate within the women's football community.
WSL Academy Sides Set for Third Tier despite Backlash
Tom ReidThe Football Association Women's National League board has approved plans allowing four Women's Super League academy sides to join the third tier from 2027, sparking concerns within the women's football community.
- Four WSL academy sides to join the third tier from 2027
- FA Women's National League board approves plans
- Concerns raised over impact on grassroots women's football
Why this matters: The move has significant implications for grassroots women's football, with concerns raised over the impact on smaller clubs and the potential for reduced competition in the lower tiers.
What this means for you: What this means for you: Fans of smaller women's football clubs may be concerned about the impact of this decision on their teams' ability to compete in the lower tiers.