Major changes are coming to the Women’s League Cup from the 2026-27 season, with teams competing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League set to be excluded from the domestic cup. The decision is part of a wider effort to ease fixture congestion and protect player welfare, particularly as the Champions League expands and more matches are added to the calendar.

Background: Champions League Expansion

The Women’s Champions League expanded to 18 teams this season, increasing the number of fixtures for top clubs. Teams such as Manchester United, Chelsea, and reigning holders Arsenal are currently participating in the continental competition, which overlaps with the Women’s League Cup schedule.

Under the new proposal, clubs playing in the Champions League will not take part in the League Cup, reducing the number of minutes and travel commitments for their players. This ensures that squad members competing at the highest level can focus on both domestic and European competitions without added strain.

League Cup Format Changes

The League Cup format itself will also undergo a revamp. The traditional group stage will be replaced by a Swiss-style league system, in which all participating teams are ranked in a single table and fixtures are arranged regionally.

The knockout phase will remain intact, with the top eight teams in the table qualifying for the quarter-finals. This adjustment ensures competitive balance while maintaining the excitement of knockout football.

Matches will continue to be scheduled on the same nights as Champions League fixtures, helping avoid clashes and giving fans more consistent viewing opportunities.

WSL Expansion

The change coincides with the WSL’s expansion to 14 teams, increasing the overall number of participants in the League Cup. By removing Champions League sides, the League Cup will better manage player workload, reduce fixture congestion, and maintain a high standard of play across the domestic competition.

Consultation Process

The proposals were approved in principle following a comprehensive consultation process led by WSL Football. A competition working group, including clubs and the Football Supporters’ Association, contributed to the review, ensuring that all stakeholders had input into the new structure. The final format is pending formal approval by the Football Association.

Implications for Clubs

For clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United, the new system will allow them to focus on Champions League progression without additional domestic cup commitments. Meanwhile, smaller WSL and Championship teams will have a greater opportunity to compete for silverware in the League Cup.

Chelsea, who lifted the trophy in March after beating Manchester City, will now concentrate on retaining their domestic league form and European ambitions.

Looking Ahead

The changes aim to modernize the Women’s League Cup, reduce player fatigue, and maintain a competitive structure as women’s football continues to grow globally. Clubs, fans, and players alike will be watching closely to see how the new system impacts both domestic and European success.