Chelsea’s six‑year reign over the Women’s Super League ended in disappointment at Stamford Bridge, where they slipped to third and must now navigate Champions League qualifiers after Arsenal’s 3‑1 win at Liverpool secured second place. The loss marked the final home appearance for striker Sam Kerr, whose 116th goal equalled the club record, and the farewell of veteran Millie Bright, and marked Hayes' era's end.

Manchester City seized the title, taking the lead in week eight and forcing both London clubs into a scramble. Arsenal, though trophyless apart from the Champions Cup, added three points to last season’s tally and eliminated Chelsea in the Champions League quarter‑finals. Katie McCabe ended her tenure with an assist in a 3‑1 win, lauding the side’s enjoyment, and proved their resilience under pressure.

Chelsea’s off‑season agenda now centres on replacing Kerr; the club is tipped to chase Manchester City’s out‑of‑contract striker Khadija Shaw. Arsenal will look to bolster depth, with links to Bayern’s Georgia Stanway and Barcelona full‑back Ona Batlle. Both teams face a rebuilding summer that will shape their chances in an increasingly competitive league, and could redefine the title race.