Earps Targets Champions League with London City Lionesses After WSL Move

Mary EarpsPlayer·Mary Earps, the esteemed former England international goalkeeper, has articulated a clear ambition for her new club, London City LionessesTeam·London City Lionesses, following her signing on June 19, 2026. Earps believes that securing a place in the UEFA Women's Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League is a tangible goal for the independent London side, despite the formidable challenge presented by the Women's Super League (WSL).

Her arrival marks a significant statement of intent for the Lionesses, who completed their inaugural WSL season in 2025/26 with a commendable sixth-place finish. The team accumulated 27 points from 22 matches, recording 8 wins, 3 draws, and 11 losses. This performance, which included a 2-1 victory against Aston VillaTeam·Aston Villa in their final match, established them as the highest-finishing newly promoted club in the league's history.

Earps, a pivotal figure in women's football, expressed her confidence in the club's trajectory. "I don't think Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League is that far away. I'm excited to possibly play a small part in that," she stated. She also acknowledged the demanding nature of the English top flight, adding, "It won't be easy, the WSL is extremely competitive. The team had a brilliant 2025/26 season finishing mid-table in their first season, now it's about climbing the table and working towards finishing as high as possible."

The goalkeeper highlighted the club's ambition and core values as key motivators for her move. She noted the "unique opportunity" presented by London City LionessesTeam·London City Lionesses as an independent women's side, suggesting it fosters "a lot more creativity" and agility within the rapidly expanding sport. This strategic vision aligns with the club's owner, Michele Kang, and manager Eder Maestre, who was appointed in January 2026. Maestre's tactical approach is central to the club's pursuit of continental football.

Qualification for the UEFA Women's Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League typically requires a top-three finish in the WSL. Earps' signing, alongside other notable acquisitions such as Grace GeyoroPlayer·Grace Geyoro and Delphine Cascarino, underscores the Lionesses' commitment to strengthening their squad and challenging the established order. The club's focus is now firmly on ascending the league table in the coming seasons, aiming to transform their debut season success into a sustained push for European competition.