What’s on in WSL Football this weekend
Women’s football has always been about more than what happens on the pitch. It’s about community. It’s about connection. And, for so many people, it’s a place where you can simply belong.
As the Barclays Women’s Super League and Barclays Women’s Super League 2 continue their return from the winter break, that sense of inclusion feels more important than ever. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter, someone discovering the women’s game for the first time, or just looking for something new to be part of, women’s football offers a welcoming space where everyone has a seat.
That idea sits at the heart of a powerful new long-form film featuring Karen Carney OBE, now available to watch in full. Fresh from the Strictly Come Dancing floor, Karen returns to football for an open and personal conversation with WSL Football.
In the film, Karen reflects on life after retirement and why her time on Strictly reminded her so much of being part of a football team. From the shared pressure to the daily routines and the bonds built behind the scenes, she draws striking parallels between elite-level dance training and professional football. Most of all, she speaks honestly about what she misses — the dressing room, the people, the buzz — and why community remains such a defining part of the women’s game.
Karen also looks back on a remarkable career, from her Birmingham City roots to trophy-laden spells with Arsenal and Chelsea. She shares stories of teammates, managers and role models who shaped her journey, alongside the moments that stayed with her long after the final whistle. The film also captures how supported she felt by women’s football during her Strictly experience, reinforcing why the Barclays WSL continues to be such a special, inclusive place for players and fans alike.
What’s on in WSL Football this weekend
With league action continuing this weekend, Karen’s message feels perfectly timed. Women’s football isn’t just something to watch, it’s something to be part of. And as she says, while it might be cold outside, the warmth, spirit and togetherness at Barclays WSL & WSL2 matches are always worth it.
If you’ve been thinking about heading to a game, this weekend is the perfect opportunity.
Here's some activations and matches to get involved in this weekend.
Chelsea v Arsenal
Saturday 24 January, Stamford Bridge, 12:30
London City Lionesses v Manchester City
Sunday 25th January, CopperJax Community Stadium, 11:55
Aston Villa v Manchester United
Sunday 25th January, Villa Park, 11:55
Charlton v Newcastle
Sunday 25th January, The Valley, 14:00
Sunderland v Southampton
Sunday 25th January, Eppleton Colliery Football Ground, 14:00
As part of the BWSL's Return to Football initiative, there will be a range of pre-match activities taking place in the function room of the Hetton Centre from 12pm on Sunday 25 January, before Sunderland AFC Women take on Southampton in their first league match of 2026.
To help fight the January blues and celebrate the resumption of the league calendar, supporters of all ages are invited to partake in a series of free drop-in health and well-being activities including yoga, mini-workouts, mindful crafting and more! These taster sessions are open to all fans, and do not have set start and finish times, so take in as little or as much as you want!
The Hetton Centre will be open from 12pm, and activities will run until around 15 minutes before kick off.