The Chelsea women’s football team faces a transitional period as they prepare for the 2026-27 Women’s Super League (WSL) season. After securing a domestic treble in the 2024-25 season, the club experienced a decline in performance last year, managing only a League Cup victory. This outcome fell short of the high expectations traditionally associated with the club, leading to a period of reflection and restructuring.

The upcoming season is marked by substantial changes to the squad. Several high-profile players have departed the club, including the retirement of Millie Bright. Additionally, key contributors such as Sam Kerr, Catarina Macario, and Guro Reiten have transferred to the NWSL in the United States, while Johanna Rytting Kaneryd has moved to Lyon. These departures represent a major shift in the team's composition, leaving a void in experience and leadership that the club must address.

Despite these challenges, the team remains a focal point for league analysts. The consensus prediction among Guardian contributors places Chelsea in third place for the 2026-27 campaign. Whether the club can overcome the loss of its core veteran players to challenge for the title remains the primary question for the season ahead.