FA greenlights four academy sides joining Women's National League tier three from 2027-28

The Football Association has approved a reform that will see four professional game academy sides compete in tier three of the Women’s National League beginning in the 2027-28 season, though they will not be eligible for promotion. The move was contested by most WNL clubs, which issued a letter calling the proposal morally wrong and alleging a lack of club consultation. The FA maintained that it carried out an extensive consultation with clubs and stakeholders, aiming to address the shortage of competitive minutes for young English players compared with Europe.

Criteria for selecting the academy teams will be set over the next months, with the arrangement subject to an annual review. The broader reform package also introduces central funding for WNL clubs for the first time, establishes club academies, and modifies loan market rules to promote loans to third- and fourth-tier sides. Sue Day, the FA’s director of women’s football, said the changes are intended to strengthen the women’s football pyramid and support the national team’s long-term success.