Liverpool Women Aim Higher in 2026-27 WSL with New Strikers

The Guardian’s weekly WSL preview series turns its focus to Liverpool ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign. Written by Tom Garry and published on 29 August 2026, the piece outlines the club’s ambitions after a disappointing 11th‑place finish last season. Liverpool’s women’s team will enter the new season seeking a stronger start, hoping the additions to their attacking line will make the difference.

Two signings dominate the conversation: German striker Vivien Endemann and Japanese youngster Mao Itamura. Endemann arrives with a reputation for goal‑scoring in the German league, while Itamura brings youthful energy from Japan. Both are expected to bolster Liverpool’s forward options and provide the clinical edge that was missing in the previous campaign. Their international backgrounds underline the club’s intent to broaden its talent pool.

The writers contributing to the Guardian preview collectively project Liverpool to finish eighth in the league. This consensus figure does not represent a single author’s forecast but the average of multiple tips. An eighth‑place finish would mark a clear step up from the 11th spot the side occupied at the end of the 2025‑26 season, indicating modest but meaningful progress.

The emphasis on a better start reflects the belief that early points are crucial in a tightly contested league. By integrating Endemann’s experience and Itamura’s potential into the squad, Liverpool hopes to convert draws into wins and avoid the slide that saw them near the bottom of the table last term. The club’s management has signalled that the two newcomers will be given opportunities to influence matches from the outset.

While the preview refrains from detailed tactical analysis, the overarching narrative is clear: Liverpool’s women’s side aims to rewrite the story of last season. With the combined optimism of the Guardian’s writers and the fresh impetus supplied by Endemann and Itamura, the Reds are positioned to challenge for a higher league standing and restore confidence among their supporters.