Foreign coaches are showcasing their qualities but it is becoming harder for female managers, particularly homegrown coaches, to break into the top tier of the WSL. Only four of the 12 WSL clubs have female managers, and only two are English. This disparity raises questions about the progression opportunities available for local coaching talent, as international appointments dominate new managerial vacancies.
Dan Clements, the FA's head of coaching development, discusses the challenges facing female coaches: 'It's obviously a constant battle for us. There are probably a lot of reasons. There's a significant amount of work to do to break down barriers. It has to be a joint effort. It's a challenge we're willing to accept and are really leaning into.'
The Football Association aims to have 75% female managers or head coaches in the WSL, reflecting a commitment to improving diversity within coaching roles. However, this goal is hindered by the influx of foreign coaches, making it difficult for English female coaches to secure prominent positions within their own leagues.
Collection
[
|
...
]