WSL 2025-26 Season Review: Standout Players, Managers and Goals

The 2025-26 Women’s Super League season delivered unforgettable performances, dramatic title races, and moments of brilliance across the campaign. From dominant goalscorers to tactical masterminds and spectacular strikes, several names stood above the rest.

Best Player of the Season

There was one clear standout throughout the season — Khadija Shaw. The Manchester City Women striker once again proved why she is regarded as one of the best forwards in world football.

Shaw finished the league season with an incredible 21 goals in just 22 matches, securing the Golden Boot for a third consecutive year. Her consistency in front of goal played a major role in Manchester City’s successful title-winning campaign.

What makes Shaw truly special is not only her finishing ability but also her physical strength, movement, aerial dominance, and overall impact on games. Even during difficult matches, she consistently found ways to influence the outcome and deliver when her team needed her most.

Many observers now consider her the best striker in women’s football, and her achievements this season only strengthened that reputation.

Best Manager

Andrée Jeglertz made an immediate impact in his first season with Manchester City. After arriving under pressure following Denmark’s disappointing European Championship campaign, he quickly transformed City into the strongest team in the league.

Jeglertz introduced a calm and confident atmosphere within the squad while implementing an exciting and dynamic style of football. His tactical flexibility and ability to improve player mentality became key factors behind City’s first league title in a decade.

Players praised his leadership and the unity he created within the dressing room. Under his guidance, Manchester City developed into a more balanced and mentally resilient side capable of handling pressure throughout the title race.

He also helped several key players rediscover their best form, including Vivianne Miedema and Yui Hasegawa, while turning City into one of the most dangerous teams from set-piece situations.

Best Goal of the Season

The season featured several spectacular goals, but a few moments stood out above the rest.

Oona Siren produced one of the most memorable strikes of the campaign for West Ham United Women against London City Lionesses. Her stunning long-range volley was struck perfectly and remains one of the finest technical finishes of the year.

Another unforgettable moment came from Jess Park, whose curling effort against London City Lionesses showcased exceptional skill and precision after cutting inside from the left wing.

Olivia Smith also announced herself in style after becoming the first £1 million player in women’s football. Her sensational debut goal for Arsenal Women combined pace, technique, and composure in a moment fans will remember for years.

Meanwhile, Yuka Momiki scored one of the smartest goals of the season for Everton Women against Chelsea Women. Spotting goalkeeper Hannah Hampton off her line, Momiki brilliantly chipped the ball from over 30 yards out.

A Season to Remember

The 2025-26 WSL season highlighted the rapid growth and quality of women’s football. Manchester City’s return to the top, Khadija Shaw’s dominance, and the number of unforgettable goals throughout the campaign made this one of the most exciting seasons in recent memory.

With rising stars continuing to emerge and the overall level of competition improving every year, the future of the Women’s Super League looks brighter than ever.