Since their 2019 breakaway origins, London City Lionesses have swiftly evolved—from securing promotion to the WSL to orchestrating one of the most ambitious transfer windows in club history. Bolstered by Michele Kang’s vision, the club has assembled a potent roster mixing international pedigree with youthful promise in preparation for European ambitions.
A Summer of Strategic Signings
This summer transfer window has seen the Lionesses transform from hopeful debutants to a polished contender. On the front line, Nikita Parris joined on a two-year deal after departing Brighton, adding experience from clubs like Lyon and Man United. The midfield gained two big-name acquisitions from NWSL side Angel City: Katie Zelem, ex-Man United captain and WSL winner, and Alanna Kennedy, the seasoned Australian defender with spells across the Premier League and the WSL.
On the defensive front, Jana Fernández, the young Spanish defender formerly of Barcelona, signed a long-term contract until 2028. Further bolstering the backline, Wassa Sangaré, a French youth international from Lyon, joined on loan to bring athleticism and composure.
London City’s summer haul expands even further, with additional impactful signings:
- Daniëlle van de Donk (Lyon),
- Sanni Franssi (Real Sociedad),
- Isa Kardinaal (Ajax),
- Teyah Goldie (Arsenal),
- Poppy Pattinson (Brighton & Hove Albion),
- Elene Lete (Real Sociedad goalkeeper),
- Freya Godfrey (from Arsenal, made permanent after loan),
- Paula Partido (Real Madrid)
- Alanna Kennedy (Angel City FC / NWSL)
- Katie Zelem (Angel City FC / NWSL)
Ambition Underlines Every Move
The summer intake exemplifies the club’s strategic model: merging experience (Parris, Zelem, Kennedy), defensive solidity (Fernández, Lete, Pattinson), and youth potential (Sangaré, Godfrey). Saki Kumagai, who joined earlier in January, encapsulated this ambition, stating that “they have the quality” for the big leagues, now with reinforcement from elite-level recruits.
Ricocheting off this momentum, manager Jocelyn Prêcheur and billionaire owner Michele Kang have signaled their intent to compete for trophies, perhaps even on the European stage.
What This Means for 2025-26
Looking ahead, the roster depth allows London City to rotate effectively across competitions. Parris and Zelem bring leadership and finishing quality, while Kennedy and Fernández tighten the defence. The blend of youthful energy and seasoned world-class players paves the way for a promising WSL debut—and possibly a push for European qualification.