Can Southampton come closer to Promotion despite Reduced Investment?
The Saints finished 5th in the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL2) last season, missing out on promotion for the fourth successive campaign. Southampton finished with 35 points and had the joint second highest goal difference at 18 which was helped by a staggering 4-0 victory over Ipswich Town on the opening weekend, but they struggled with irregular form and closely fought draws.
However, with recent budget cuts to the women’s side being announce, this season comes with added pressure and challenges to overcome in their race for promotion to the topflight.
Key Signings
Southampton announced the signing of 23-year-old full-back Niamh Murphy, who has spent the last four years at former WSL2 opponents, Blackburn Rovers. Murphy has worked with Southampton’s manager (Simon Parker) before, providing the versatile fullback with a sense of familiarity on the south coast.
Following the departure of goalkeeper Fran Stenson to Sunderland, Southampton have signed two new shot-stoppers. Alina Santos, a 22-year-old signing her first professional contract, graduated from the University of Denver after impressing in the American college system. She was handed her first cap for the New Zealand Football Ferns in December 2025, just two months after her first international call up. The Saints have also signed the vastly experienced Grace Moloney, the 33-year-old was a part of the Republic of Ireland squad which took to the stage for their debut FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023.
Ones to Watch
Milly Mott has made 134 appearances for the Saints, recently signing a new one-year contract with the club. She joined Southampton in the Under-14s and has since proven herself to be a key asset within the squad. A versatile defender, the academy graduate is a promising prospect and a consistent performer who has committed her future to the club and their ambitions.
Mary Bashford had an impressive campaign in the 2025/26 league season, scoring eight times (the most of any Saint’s player). Following a standout debut season, Bashford picked up both the Players’ Player and Coaches’ Player awards - fans will be hoping she continues to have stellar performances in a Southampton shirt as she remains at the club during a turbulent period.
Pre-Season
Southampton began their preparations for the 2026/27 season with a friendly against Celtic - the match took place at AFC Totton’s Snows Stadium, on Sunday the 2nd of August. The Saints drew 0-0 with the Glaswegian side, showcasing their extensive squad with 22 women playing 45 minutes each. Southampton had an abundance of chances, filling fans with confidence as we edge closer to the start of their 2026/27 WSL2 campaign.
With several key names in the history of Southampton FC, including Aimee Palmer, Atlanta Primus, Tegan McGowan and Jess Simpson departing the club this summer, moves in the summer transfer market were expected from the club. However, the budget cuts have perhaps impacted these changes.
As their preseason campaign continues, the club hope to rotate the squad and give vital minutes to all set to play a part in their next WSL2 campaign. With a number of friendlies coming up, the Saints hope to prove they are willing to fight for promotion and make their mark once again in the second tier of English football.
Aspirations for this Season
The Saints will be hoping for a successful campaign in the second flight, with their ultimate aim being promotion to the WSL. However, following the devastating news of their budget cuts (around £500,000), this outcome would be a huge leap when compared to the increased investment of the teams around them. While other clubs in the league - such as Newcastle United and Burnley - making statement signings during the summer transfer window, Southampton rely on consistent performers and promising newcomers to overcome difficult oppositions.
Improving their fifth place 2025/26 finish might be the first goal to overcome, with other tests coming thick and fast from the season start in September.