Leicester City endured a brutal WSL season, winning only two of 22 matches and ending with a -41 goal difference. On 1 May, the club slipped to the bottom of the table, sealing the last spot in a league that will expand from 12 to 14 teams next season.

The lifeline lay in a first‑ever play‑off tie against Charlton, a side that defied expectations all season. Goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse made the difference with crucial saves and a stunning shoot‑out performance, earning Leicester a 1‑0 win that knocked them out of the top flight.

Manager Rick Passmoor blamed a lack of squad depth and the shock sacking of former coach Amandine Miquel before the season began. His January signings of experienced players failed to close the gap, and with the club now facing a £1.1 million reduction in broadcast revenue, contract talks will be tougher.

With relegation confirmed, Leicester will likely play in the WSL 2 and struggle to retain talent as wages shrink. The club is eyeing the World Sevens series next week, which offers a £1.1 million prize pool that could shore up finances. Passmoor insists the club must reset its vision and culture to survive.