Lucy Bronze Highlights WSL's Growing Appeal to Europe's Elite Players
Lucy Bronze, the England defender, emphasizes that the Women's Super League (WSL) has a distinct advantage in attracting Europe's top talent due to its continuous improvement. As the WSL evolves, several high-profile Spanish players have been linked with moves to the league this summer, especially with England set to face Spain on Friday. Recent reports from BBC Sport reveal that Mapi Leon, who recently departed from Barcelona after nine years, is expected to join London City Lionesses under a verbal agreement. Additionally, two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas is also leaving Barcelona after 14 years, with London City Lionesses reportedly interested in her services. The trend of high-profile transfers continues with Mariona Caldentey moving to Arsenal and Lucia Corrales and Jana Fernandez joining London City Lionesses in recent seasons. Bronze remarks, "There has been a lot of players in Europe [moving], but I think it's been more recent with the Spanish players. The WSL is arguably one of the biggest leagues in the world and it's one of the most commercialized as well." She praises the competitive nature of the WSL, stating, "The best players in the world want to be competing all the time for trophies. The English league has that edge now where we're going to another level every single season." As England prepares to face Spain in a critical Women's World Cup qualifying match in Mallorca at 20:00 BST, a win or draw would secure their spot in next year's tournament. Currently, Sarina Wiegman's side leads the qualifying table, having won all four matches so far. Bronze acknowledges the rivalry with Spain, saying, "Spain, for us, is an amazing opponent. They bring out the best in us. It's just a really good, fun rivalry that both teams absolutely love."
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-04