Blackburn Rovers Women are on the brink of withdrawing from the newly rebranded Women’s Super League 2 (WSL 2), formerly the Women’s Championship, due to financial constraints. Players were informed via WhatsApp that there is a 99% chance the club will not provide the necessary funding to meet the league’s updated minimum licence requirements, which now mandate a near full-time, professional setup with a range of staff roles.
Players Express Frustration Over Communication and Support
The manner in which the players were informed—through a WhatsApp message—has added to their frustration. Defender Niamh Murphy voiced her concerns on social media, stating that the team deserves better treatment and transparency from the club’s owners. She highlighted the players’ dedication despite earning below a livable wage and juggling multiple jobs to sustain their football careers.
Financial Challenges and League Requirements
The WSL 2 has implemented new licensing requirements aimed at professionalizing the second tier of women’s football. Clubs are now expected to operate a near full-time setup, including appointing a head of women’s football, marketing manager, head coach, assistant coach, physiotherapist or sports therapist, doctor, strength and conditioning coach, goalkeeping coach, and several individuals in safeguarding and player-welfare roles.
Blackburn Rovers Women, who finished 10th this season, narrowly avoided relegation despite operating on one of the division’s smallest budgets. The club’s historical commitment to developing young talent has been notable, with former players including England internationals Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, and Keira Walsh.
Broader Implications for Women’s Football
If Blackburn withdraws, it would follow similar moves by other clubs like Wolves, who opted not to apply for WSL 2 promotion despite on-field success. This trend raises concerns about the financial sustainability of women’s football clubs and the support they receive from their parent organizations.
The situation mirrors last summer’s late withdrawal of Reading from the same division, which left the league with only 11 teams. Reading’s move impacted staff, players, and fans, with expected redundancies and the discontinuation of youth teams.
Calls for Action and Support
The potential withdrawal of Blackburn Rovers Women from WSL 2 underscores the need for increased investment and support for women’s football. Players and supporters are calling for greater transparency and commitment from club owners to ensure the growth and sustainability of the women’s game.
As the deadline approaches for Blackburn to confirm their participation in the upcoming season, the football community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that supports the players and the future of women’s football in the region.
