WSL players score PFA membership deal

The WSL has entered advanced discussions with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) regarding a funding agreement that would allow all players in the top two divisions to join the union for the first time.

Under current arrangements, the PFA has not received specific financial backing for the women’s game, meaning players in the second tier, previously known as the Championship, have been unable to access its services.

This has left many without essential support like healthcare and medical insurance, despite some being paid significantly below the national minimum wage on part-time contracts.

Talks between WSL Football and the PFA have reportedly accelerated following Blackburn’s decision this month to withdraw from the second tier.

The PFA has provided financial assistance to these players despite having no formal obligation.

WSL Football, the entity responsible for operating the top two women’s divisions, is understood to have reached an agreement in principle with the PFA for a funding package expected to be finalised in the coming weeks.

Both parties are confident that all players in the top two tiers will be PFA members by the start of next season, which will see all clubs in both divisions become fully professional.

The WSL has moved to implement higher minimum standards from next season. However, the increased costs have proven challenging for some clubs, leading to Blackburn’s withdrawal, following Reading’s departure from the second tier on financial grounds 12 months prior.

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