Meet the London City Lionesses: the first independent Women’s Super League club
The London City Lionesses are set to make history this season as the first fully independent women’s club to reach the Women’s Super League (WSL), England’s top division. With bold ambitions and strong financial backing, the club promises to revolutionize women’s football both domestically and internationally.
From Millwall Roots to Independence
Founded in 2019, the Lionesses emerged after separating from the Millwall Lionesses, establishing themselves as a standalone club with no ties to a men’s side. Initially led by investors Anthony and Diane Culligan, the project was designed to give women’s football its own platform and identity.
The team’s growth accelerated after England’s Euro 2022 triumph, which boosted visibility and investment across the women’s game. Increased revenue allowed the Lionesses to expand their infrastructure and strengthen the squad.
Michele Kang’s Takeover and Global Vision
In late 2023, the club entered a new era when Michele Kang, owner of the Washington Spirit, purchased the team. Soon after, she launched Kynisca Sports International Ltd, creating a multi-club model that connected the Lionesses with the Spirit and OL Lyonnais Féminin.
The acquisition placed the Lionesses in a global network of elite women’s clubs, opening doors for shared resources, international exposure, and a long-term vision of becoming a powerhouse.
Promotion to the WSL
With increased investment, London City dominated the 2024/25 WSL2 season, collecting 43 points in 20 matches to secure promotion. Their success made them the first independent women’s club to reach the WSL, a milestone widely celebrated as a breakthrough moment for the sport.
Following promotion, the club also secured a partnership with Nike, a move that further cemented its growing profile.
Squad Reinforcements and Ambition
Ahead of their WSL debut, the Lionesses strengthened their roster with several key signings, including Spanish defender Jana Fernández, who joined from Barcelona. The additions underline the club’s ambition not only to survive but to compete at the highest level from the outset.
Debut Fixture
The Lionesses will play their first-ever WSL match on Saturday (6) against Arsenal, away at the Emirates Stadium. Kick-off is set for 9:30 a.m. (Brasília time), with fans eager to see how the newcomers fare against one of Europe’s elite sides.
