WSL academy teams to play in third tier after FA approves controversial plan

The Football Association has approved a proposal to integrate four Women’s Super League (WSL) academy teams into the third tier of the English women’s football pyramid. The change is scheduled to take effect beginning with the 2027-28 season.

The move has been described as controversial, though the Football Association maintains that the integration is intended to raise competitive standards and support the development of young players within the league structure.