Why England’s WSL Has Become a Hub for Australian Footballers and Boosted the Matildas’ Rise
It’s surprising to recall that just seven years ago, no Australian players featured in England’s Women’s Super League (WSL). Today, the league is home to many of Australia’s top footballers like Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, and Mary Fowler. Australia ranks among the most represented countries in WSL history, with stars such as Sam Kerr, Katrina Gorry, and Mackenzie Arnold having spent significant time in England.
The influx is so notable that Jack Sharkey, the Matildas’ Physical Performance Lead, lives in England to stay close to players. “I’ve unfortunately got the short straw with the relocation,” he joked, while assistant coach Emily Husband praised the Australian lifestyle.
From U.S. to England: Shifting Overseas Choices
Previously, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States was the preferred overseas league for Australian internationals, partly because its season aligned with Australia’s A-League calendar. For example, during the 2019 World Cup, 13 of Australia’s 23-player squad were based in the U.S.
After that tournament, things changed. Sam Kerr moved to Chelsea, soon followed by veterans like Catley, Arnold, Caitlin Foord, and Alanna Kennedy. Australians now compete not only in the WSL but also in its second division, with players such as Alexia Apostolakis and Kaitlyn Torpey featuring in WSL 2 squads.
Challenging Seasons and the Move to Europe
Clare Wheeler, an Everton midfielder, recalls how players balanced grueling schedules between the U.S. and Australia before the pandemic. The constant back-and-forth left little rest, which Wheeler said discouraged her from following the same path. Instead, she chose Europe for her first overseas move in 2021 to enjoy a full season abroad.
Alanna Kennedy described the cycle as unsustainable, highlighting the rising physical demands and longer A-League seasons. Steph Catley, after signing with Arsenal, noted how the relentless travel took a toll on players’ bodies, affecting performance during major tournaments.
Why England Became the Preferred Destination
The 2020 NWSL season was disrupted due to Covid-19, but the WSL continued. This attracted many Americans and Australians to test the English league. Catley mentioned that by then the WSL quality matched America’s, and it has only grown since.
Mary Fowler praised England as a model for women’s football, citing better wages, media attention, and player empowerment. Kennedy appreciated the cultural similarities to Australia, finding England a second home thanks to its friendly atmosphere and the presence of fellow Australians.
Being part of a large Aussie community in a compact country helps players cope with being far from home, says Wheeler. Kennedy agrees that having familiar faces nearby offers comfort and camaraderie.
The Impact on the Matildas
This migration to England and Europe has improved the national team by exposing players to higher-level football, coaching, and environments. The exhausting cycle of playing back-to-back seasons in different countries is no longer common, reducing injuries and fatigue.
“You don’t want to be actively sending players overseas, but if that’s going to accelerate their development, then that’s what’s best,” admits assistant coach Emily Husband.
The Matildas’ best international performances coincided with this trend. At the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, 18 of 22 players were Europe-based; 8 played in England. During the 2023 home World Cup, 19 of 23 were European-based, with 11 in the WSL.
Mary Fowler feels training alongside top players and coaches daily in these leagues boosts individual and collective growth.
Managing Travel and Player Welfare
The challenge of distance remains, with Australians among the most travelled female footballers worldwide. Sharkey’s presence in England facilitates communication with clubs and players, allowing coordinated efforts to protect players’ wellbeing.
He shared how they manage travel effects through compression gear, light exposure, caffeine timing, and sleep aids to optimize recovery. This support depends on Football Australia’s funding and collaboration with sports science networks at home.
Strategic International Camps
The Matildas have started holding training camps in Europe to reduce travel strain before key fixtures. The recent October camp in Germany and France allowed players to arrive early and train more, compared to arriving late in Australia and missing sessions.
“The more exposure we get to players, the happier coaches are,” Husband said, emphasizing the benefits of European-based camps.
Effects on the A-League
More young Australian players are moving abroad earlier, including Alexia Apostolakis, Leticia McKenna, and Holly McNamara, reflecting a growing trend. While positive for the national team, this reduces star power and fan interest in the domestic league.
This comes amid ongoing pay disputes in the A-Leagues, which Ellie Carpenter called disappointing, urging more investment.
Despite challenges, the A-League remains vital as a development platform, offering competitive match minutes for young players. Husband stresses the importance of maintaining this pathway for future Matildas.
Looking Ahead
Carpenter hopes one day to return home and finish her career in Australia once conditions improve financially. Meanwhile, she and other internationals continue to showcase their skills in England, inspiring younger players to follow their path.
Alanna Kennedy believes that seeing veterans succeed abroad fuels ambition in upcoming players, encouraging them to take the leap and strengthen the national team.
