Leicester finished bottom of the WSL, eight points adrift of safety.
Leicester City’s tenure in the Women’s Super League has concluded after five years, sealed by a penalty shootout defeat to Charlton in Saturday’s play-off.
This outcome caps a challenging season for the club, mirroring the men’s team’s relegation to League One.
The women’s team now faces an uncertain future as they prepare for the second tier.
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Charlton Athletic, along with champions Birmingham City and runners-up Crystal Palace, earned promotion from the WSL 2.
Leicester City’s fate as the WSL’s lowest-ranked team was confirmed on May 1, with a record of just two wins and a -41 goal difference from 22 matches.
A final opportunity arose in the form of a first-ever play-off tie, determining the last WSL club as the league expands from 12 to 14 teams, joining promoted Birmingham City and Crystal Palace.
However, the weight of potential relegation had been palpable, and they faced a Charlton side invigorated by a season of exceeding expectations.
Charlton’s goalkeeper, Sophie Whitehouse, ultimately proved decisive with crucial saves and a standout performance during the penalty shootout.
“We cannot afford simple, basic errors. Our performances between January and March [in the WSL] warranted more points,” stated Leicester boss Rick Passmoor.
“Confidence and momentum are crucial, and escaping that downward spiral proved challenging.”
Leicester’s struggles began before the season commenced.
Many identified them as potential relegation candidates, citing a lack of squad depth, with only a late flurry of additions in the final hours of the summer transfer window providing some respite.
The transfer activity was impacted by the unexpected dismissal of former manager Amandine Miquel just ten days before the season opener.
Miquel had led Leicester to a 10th-place finish the previous year—their highest in the WSL—ten points clear of relegated Palace.
Passmoor stepped in, initially as interim manager, before signing a three-year contract in October.
The January transfer window was vital for rebuilding the squad, and while Passmoor brought in experienced players, it was insufficient to close the gap.
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Charlton earn WSL promotion after Whitehouse penalty heroics
Captain Sam Tierney told BBC Radio Leicester before Saturday’s play-off defeat that the club had fallen short of expectations and a “full review” was necessary—a sentiment echoed by Passmoor.
“As a club, we need to assess and review our position. We need to potentially reset,” said Passmoor.
“What is our vision? What is our strategy? These factors will guide our leadership teams and our culture, influencing performance.
“We must clarify all aspects within that framework.”
Questions remain regarding whether the women’s team will continue to play at King Power Stadium in the WSL 2.
Following the men’s relegation to League One, the club faces increased financial pressure, and the women’s team will receive significantly less broadcast revenue than they did in the top flight.
Consequently, the player budget and wages are likely to decrease, making contract renewal negotiations more challenging.
Players face uncertainty about their futures, and Leicester may struggle to retain their top talent.
“We have not yet been informed of any specific changes,” Passmoor stated.
“The club has been supportive since my arrival in early September. We recognized the challenge ahead. The women’s game is evolving, and maintaining a presence in the WSL is a significant undertaking.
“We must ensure consistency throughout the women’s section of the club to facilitate growth.”
In the immediate future, Leicester are preparing to participate in the World Sevens series next week, potentially offering a financial boost with a total prize pool of £1.1 million.
“The World Sevens format provides a different spotlight on the game, showcasing players’ personalities and character,” said Passmoor.
“It also attracts potential investors, which is a great opportunity. It’s a chance for players to express themselves.”
Rick Passmoor previously served as assistant manager at West Ham.
The strains of the season were evident in Passmoor, who, usually animated, appeared understandably dejected during the post-match media conference on Saturday.
His steady start as interim manager earned him a three-year deal in October, but following 13 consecutive defeats, his position is now uncertain.
When asked about discussions regarding his future, Passmoor responded: “Within football, circumstances can change rapidly. However, the entire staff has been incredible, supporting the players and striving for success for Leicester City Women.
“The club has been supportive, providing guidance and direction.
“They will likely meet with [director of women’s football] Lee Billiard and myself in the coming weeks to determine the future, but the club has been very supportive throughout the season.”
Ben Haines, Ellen White, and Jen Beattie return for another season of the Women’s Football Weekly podcast. New episodes are released every Tuesday on BBC Sounds. Find interviews and additional content from the Women’s Super League and beyond on the Women’s Football Weekly feed.
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