Newcastle United Women Set Sights on WSL Promotion This Season

From the fourth tier to the brink of the WSL, Newcastle United Women have transformed under Becky Langley.

"We must be ambitious," says Langley, leading the side in their second Championship season. "This club needs a WSL team as soon as possible."

Six years ago, the team operated independently, playing at Druid Park with minimal support. Langley handled everything from coaching to laundry, with family helping at the gates. That changed after Newcastle's 2021 takeover.

Co-owner Amanda Staveley set a five-year plan to reach the top tier. In 2022 the women's team officially joined Newcastle United, enabling Langley to go full-time. A year later they turned professional, achieved back-to-back promotions, and finished fifth in their first Championship season.

Promotion within the five-year target demands boldness. "We have clear aims," Langley adds. "But we avoid external pressure."

Raising the bar

Langley pioneered pro standards before the takeover, overhauling nutrition, medical care and training. Since 2023, the team has shared Kingston Park with Newcastle Falcons. This season their home games are at Gateshead International Stadium due to pitch regulations. "The facilities are outstanding," Langley says, praising the pitch, changing rooms and overall investment.

Refreshing the squad

Newcastle have signed high-profile players like Jordan Nobbs and Morgan Gautrat as part of their push for promotion. However, 12 players left after the 2024-25 season, including club captain Grace Donnelly and record scorer Katie Barker. Fan channel NUFC Fans TV questioned the communication of departures, while acknowledging the squad's upgrade.

Staveley's legacy

Staveley invested time and funds, boosting morale and ambition. Former players like Georgia Gibson recall her personal support. Despite her exit last year, current stars like Nobbs praise ongoing backing. "Promotion is the goal," she says.

With the WSL expanding in 2026-27 to allow three promotions, Newcastle began the season with a 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest, then drew 1-1 with Sheffield United. Their next challenge is promotion-chasing Birmingham.

Newcastle's rapid rise, backed by substantial investment and professional standards, has them on the cusp of WSL promotion.

This topic was reported by BBC Sport.

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