The National Women’s Soccer League is growing faster than ever, but it’s also at an inflection point.
The league and the NWSL Players Association recently announced a new collective bargaining agreement through 2030 that brings sweeping and transformative changes, including full free agency, the elimination of drafts and increased minimum salaries. Meanwhile, the league continues to expand with a 15th team set for 2026, and a 16th expected to be announced later this year — all as the NWSL finishes its first year of a four-year media rights deal (which includes ESPN) worth $240 million, a 50-fold increase from the previous deal.
So, as the future comes into focus, what are some of the key questions facing the NWSL on and off the field? ESPN sought answers by conducting a one-on-one phone survey with general managers (or equivalent highest-ranking soccer executives) from all 14 NWSL teams throughout late spring and early summer.
GMs were granted anonymity so that they could speak freely about sensitive topics, including whether NWSL teams follow the rules, the biggest threats facing the league, abolishing the salary cap, the players they want to sign, whether the NWSL needs U.S. women’s national team players in it to succeed, and more.
