Bronze: WSL has ‘the edge’ to attract best players in Europe

Lucy Bronze believes the Women’s Super League has the “edge” when it comes to attracting Europe’s top talents as it continues to improve each year.

The WSL has seen a number of high-profile players, particularly from Spain, linked with a move to the league this off-season.

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas is leaving Barcelona after a hugely successful 14 years, with the London City Lionesses among the favourites to land her signature.

The Lionesses also reportedly have a verbal agreement in place with Mapi Leon, who left Barcelona last month following nine years at the Spanish giants.

Should they make the switch to the WSL, they would follow the likes of Mariona Caldentey, Lucia Corrales and Jana Fernandez, who have moved to the English league in recent years.

“There has been a lot of players in Europe [moving], but I think it’s been more recent with the Spanish players,” said Bronze ahead of England’s Women’s World Cup qualifier against Spain.

“The WSL is arguably one of the biggest leagues in the world, and it’s one of the most commercialised as well. The draw for playing for big clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal, etc., is huge.

“The competition in the WSL is incredible to be a part of. 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, and the Lionesses’ success has had a lot to do with that. It’s just a really exciting league to be a part of, I think.”

On top since match week eight

A dominant #BarclaysWSL season for @ManCityWomen  pic.twitter.com/qXbyI6639U

— Barclays Women’s Super League (@BarclaysWSL) May 25, 2026

Should England avoid defeat to Spain, they will qualify for the 2027 World Cup – it would be the sixth consecutive tournament the Lionesses have reached, after missing the finals in both 1999 and 2003.

England have won more games against Spain this century than any other nation across all competitions (nine) – the Lionesses could be the first team to beat the Spaniards home and away in a qualifying campaign for a major tournament since the Netherlands in a play-off tie ahead of Euro 2009.

“Spain, for us, is an amazing opponent. They bring out the best in us,” added Bronze.

“It’s one of those rivalries where we have made each other better. It’s good for the game, and it’s good for each other.

“The way Spain have improved over the past four or five years has really pushed this England team on to improve as well. That filters through to the rest of Europe.

“It’s just a really good, fun rivalry that both teams absolutely love.”

As for Spain, if they win by more than one goal, they will put themselves in the driving seat in Group C, knowing that only the top team automatically qualifies for the tournament, with second place entering a play-off.