Why England's WSL Has Become a Hub for Australian Footballers and Boosted the Matildas' Success

Only seven years ago, there were no Australians in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Now, it hosts many of the Matildas’ top stars, including Ellie Carpenter, Steph Catley, and Mary Fowler. Australia ranks among the most represented nations in WSL history, with greats like Sam Kerr, Katrina Gorry, and Mackenzie Arnold having made their mark in England.

The influx is so significant that Jack Sharkey, the Matildas’ Physical Performance Lead, is based in England to stay close to the players and clubs. This shift marks a clear change from previous years when the NWSL in the United States was the preferred overseas league for Australian internationals.

The Shift From America to England

Back in 2019, thirteen players in Australia’s World Cup squad played in the U.S., but after that tournament, players like Kerr moved to Chelsea, followed by others such as Catley, Arnold, Foord, and Kennedy joining the WSL. Today, Australians play not only in the WSL but also in its second tier, with names like Alexia Apostolakis and Kaitlyn Torpey part of recent squads.

Endless Seasons and Why Europe Became More Appealing

Before moving to England, many Australian players endured a tough routine, playing back-to-back seasons between the U.S. and Australia’s leagues, with hardly any off-season. Clare Wheeler recalls watching teammates juggle this exhausting schedule, which often led to burnout.

Alanna Kennedy, who now plays for London City Lionesses, described this cycle as unsustainable. The A-League's expanding season only increased physical demands, making breaks essential. Steph Catley explained how the constant travel and lack of rest affected players’ health and performance at major tournaments.

Why England Became the Destination of Choice

The pandemic in 2020 paused the NWSL season, while the WSL continued, prompting many to experience English football. Players found the WSL competitive and professional, with Catley noting it had reached quality comparable to the U.S. league. Since then, the league has grown even more, attracting players like Mary Fowler, who praised England for its strong wages, media coverage, and supportive environment.

Cultural similarities between Australia and England have also helped. Kennedy mentioned feeling more at home in England due to the laid-back nature of people, despite the climate differences. With so many Australians in a compact country, players form close bonds, easing life far from home.

Positive Impact on the Matildas

The move to England and Europe has elevated the national team’s quality. Players benefit from high-level coaching and competition, helping the Matildas achieve their best-ever results, such as reaching the semi-finals at the 2021 Olympics and 2023 World Cup.

Emily Husband, assistant coach, admits they would prefer players stay home but recognizes that playing abroad accelerates development and strengthens the national squad. At the 2023 World Cup, 19 of 23 players were Europe-based, with 11 competing in the WSL.

Mary Fowler highlighted the advantage of training daily with world-class teammates and coaches, which fosters continuous growth.

Managing Challenges Far From Home

Australia's geographic distance presents challenges. According to FIFPRO’s recent report, the four most-traveled female footballers are all Australian. To support them, Football Australia bases staff like Jack Sharkey in England for better coordination with clubs.

They provide tailored travel plans including compression wear and advice on light exposure, caffeine, and rest strategies to help players adjust quickly during camps. This level of support depends on solid funding and sports science research from back home.

European Camps and Reducing Travel Strain

The Matildas have started holding international breaks and camps in Europe to reduce long-haul flights. For example, the October camp took place in Germany and France, allowing players to train immediately instead of arriving tired after long travel.

Husband joked about how coaches appreciate every extra session with players. These European bases also prepare the team for upcoming Olympic qualifiers closer to home.

Effects on the Domestic Game

The growing trend of Australians moving abroad has left the A-League without many star players. This reduces the league’s quality and fan interest. Pay disputes in both men’s and women’s A-Leagues add to challenges; Ellie Carpenter called for greater investment during a recent visit home.

Despite difficulties competing with leagues like the WSL and NWSL, the A-League remains critical as a development platform. As Husband pointed out, young players gain valuable senior match experience that sets the foundation for future Matildas.

Aspiring to Return One Day

Carpenter hopes that someday she and other Matildas will be able to finish their careers in Australia once the league’s financial situation improves. For now, she continues showcasing her talent in England, inspiring younger players who dream of following similar paths.

Kennedy believes this exposure fuels ambition for emerging players to chase opportunities abroad, which ultimately strengthens the national team.