WSL's Top Performers of the Season
· news
The Stat Awards: Who Were the WSL’s Top Performers This Season?
The 2025/26 season of the Women’s Super League has been one for the ages, with numerous standout performers leaving their mark on the competition. Amidst the usual suspects, some players have risen above the rest, showcasing a level of skill and dedication that is truly remarkable.
Bunny Shaw stands out as one of the greatest strikers in WSL history, having secured her third Golden Boot award. Her impressive goal-scoring record, combined with her tireless work rate and ability to create chances for her teammates, makes her a force to be reckoned with on the pitch.
What sets Shaw apart from other elite players is her adaptability and willingness to improve her game. Manager Andree Jeglertz has praised Shaw’s ability to read the game and make timely interventions that often catch opponents off guard. This level of intelligence on the pitch is rare, making Shaw a true leader among her peers.
Lauren Hemp, Manchester City’s mercurial winger, has been instrumental in creating scoring opportunities for her teammates. With seven assists and 51 shots on target, she has proven herself to be one of the most clinical finishers in the league. Her ability to deliver under pressure is particularly impressive, given that she struggled with injuries last season.
Hemp’s consistency has been a key factor in Manchester City’s success this season. Despite the team’s reliance on her, she continues to provide the kind of service that makes it impossible for opponents to shut down their attack.
Other players who have caught the eye this season include Fuka Nagano and Alex Greenwood. Nagano, Liverpool’s midfield maestro, has been a revelation in her debut season with the Reds. With 79 recoveries in the middle third of the pitch, she has demonstrated an uncanny ability to read the game and dictate play.
Greenwood has established herself as one of the best set-piece specialists in WSL history. Her five corners this season have yielded five goals for Manchester City, a testament to her skill and precision on the ball.
Jess Park’s impact at Manchester United cannot be overstated. With 11 goal involvements and an impressive level of consistency, she has brought a new dimension to Marc Skinner’s side. Her unpredictability and ability to create chances in tight spaces make her a nightmare for defenders to deal with.
The battle between Vivianne Miedema and Mariona Caldentey at No 10 has been one of the most intriguing storylines this season. Both players have shown incredible form, with Miedema’s return to fitness coinciding with Arsenal’s resurgence. With 15 goal contributions already under her belt, she is just three shy of becoming the first player in WSL history to reach 100 goals.
Caldentey has been a revelation for Barcelona, using her exceptional vision and passing range to unlock defenses. Her chemistry with Shaw is undeniable, and their partnership has yielded some truly spectacular moments this season.
The Women’s Super League has never been more thrilling, thanks to the emergence of talented young players who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the pitch. The likes of Shaw, Hemp, Nagano, Greenwood, Park, Miedema, and Caldentey have cemented their places as among the best in the business.
As we reflect on this season, it is clear that these standout performers have set a new standard for excellence in women’s football. Their dedication, skill, and passion for the game are an inspiration to fans everywhere.
Reader Views
- RJReporter J. Avery · staff reporter
While Bunny Shaw's impressive goal-scoring record is certainly noteworthy, I'm surprised the article glosses over her lack of defensive contributions outside of holding up play. With Shaw frequently operating as a lone striker, it's surprising that Jeglertz hasn't experimented with deploying her in a more advanced role to utilize her attacking prowess more effectively.
- EKEditor K. Wells · editor
While it's no surprise that Bunny Shaw has taken home her third Golden Boot, what's truly impressive is how she's continued to adapt and improve with each season. The article mentions her ability to read the game, but doesn't delve into how this has affected Manchester City's tactics. With Shaw leading the charge, we've seen a more dynamic, fluid approach from the team, one that's caught their opponents off guard time and again.
- CSCorrespondent S. Tan · field correspondent
While Shaw and Hemp are undoubtedly two of the standout performers this season, it's worth noting that their teams' success is not solely dependent on them. A deeper analysis would reveal that both players have benefited from having strong midfield engines behind them, capable of creating opportunities for their attacking talents to flourish. For instance, Manchester City's Keira Walsh has been instrumental in shielding Hemp and allowing her to focus on the final product. Focusing solely on individual brilliance may overlook the often-overlooked yet crucial role of supporting players in a team's success.