Aston Villa Women are gearing up for the 2025-26 Women's Super League (WSL) season with renewed ambition following a rollercoaster 2024-25 campaign. After flirting with relegation for a large part of the season, the team found stability under the guidance of Natalia Arroyo, eventually securing a comfortable sixth-place finish. A strong finish to the season, with an unbeaten run of five games and a remarkable 5-2 victory over Arsenal, highlighted the team's potential under Arroyo's leadership.
Last Season's Review
The 2024-25 season was one of contrasts for Aston Villa. Robert de Pauw's tenure proved to be a disaster, leaving Arroyo with a significant challenge upon her arrival in January 2025. Despite the initial struggles, Arroyo managed to instill her coaching principles, leading to increased confidence and improved performances. Villa ended the season strongly, demonstrating the standard expected of a top-half team. However, individual errors and inconsistent performances plagued them earlier in the season, preventing them from achieving a higher league position.
Key Transfers and Squad Updates
Recognizing the need to rejuvenate the squad, Arroyo has been active in the summer transfer window, injecting youth and quality. The departures of experienced players like Jordan Nobbs, Danielle Turner, and Rachel Corsie have paved the way for new signings. Jill Baijings' permanent acquisition from Bayern Munich is a significant coup, with the Dutch midfielder already making a strong impact during her loan spell last season. Other notable additions include goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck, defenders Lynn Wilms and Océane Deslandes, and England Under-23 international Lucia Kendall. The club has also secured a contract extension for Rachel Daly, highlighting her continued importance to the team's leadership and experience. Furthermore, the arrival of Japan international Maya Hijikata adds further depth to the squad. Maz Pacheco has departed to Everton.
Pre-Season Form and Expectations
Aston Villa have been building momentum in pre-season, with a 5-1 win over Liverpool and a 1-1 draw against Paris Saint-Germain. These results suggest that Arroyo's side are well-prepared for the upcoming season. The team's ability to maintain consistency and build on their end-of-season form will be crucial to their success. Expectations are high for Villa to finish in the top half of the table and potentially challenge for a European spot.
Brutal Start to the Season
Aston Villa face a challenging start to the 2025-26 WSL season. Their opening fixture is away against Brighton & Hove Albion on September 7th, followed by home games against reigning champions Chelsea and Liverpool. A trip to the Emirates to face Arsenal concludes a tough first month.
Players to Watch
Overall Outlook
Aston Villa have the potential to build on their strong finish to last season and establish themselves as a force in the WSL. The new signings have added quality and depth to the squad, and Arroyo's coaching principles are beginning to take shape. However, consistency and the ability to avoid individual errors will be key to their success. A top-half finish and a potential challenge for a European spot are realistic goals for Aston Villa in the 2025-26 season.
