Southampton's women's team has had its budget cut significantly after a challenging summer, according to head coach Simon Parker. The team will now play most home matches at Eastleigh FC's Silverlake Stadium instead of St Mary's, a move Parker says stems from decisions outside his conversations. Operating with the smallest budget in WSL 2, the club is adjusting its strategy for the 2026-27 season.

Parker acknowledged the difficulties, noting the summer brought changes beyond financial constraints. Sources deny any link to the men's team's spygate scandal, which saw them removed from the Championship play-offs and start with a points deduction. The women's side had a strong 2025-26 campaign, finishing fifth—their highest position since re-forming—but key players have since departed.

Notable exits include Lucia Kendall to Aston Villa and Kayla Rendell to Manchester United, alongside Fran Stanton, captain Atlanta Primus, Aimee Palmer, and Tara Bourne. The move to the smaller venue aims to create a tighter atmosphere, though Parker admitted he'd prefer St Mary's. Southampton begin their WSL 2 season at Durham on Sunday, 6 September.