WSL news: Celtic and Rangers hold exploratory talks to play in the Women's Super League
Celtic are fourth in the SWPL, while second-place Rangers trail Glasgow City by five points; Celtic won the title on the final day of last season thanks to an injury-time goal to deny Rangers top spot; the clubs have held exploratory talks over a move to play in the WSL
Friday 17 January 2025 15:27, UK
Celtic and Rangers have held exploratory talks over a move to play in the Women's Super League, as first reported in The Times.
However, it is understood the Scottish Women's Premier League would not back any plans for the Old Firm to move to England's top flight.
It is also believed the SWPL and Scottish FA have not received any approach following the initial talks, while the latter would also need to approve any proposals.
The Women's Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL), who took ownership of the WSL and Women's Championship last year, have declined to comment when approached.
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According to The Times, inviting Celtic and Rangers to become part of the English top flight is understood to be one idea being explored by WPLL, who are looking at the possibility of the WSL becoming a closed league, like its American counterpart.
Sadiku: Celtic's focus is being best in Scotland
When asked if she would welcome a move to the WSL, Celtic women's head coach Elena Sadiku said: "It is a tricky question. When it comes to that question, we can say that competing against Arsenal, Chelsea - it is a different level.
"Is it nice to play against those teams? Yes.
"But like I said, I think we are doing just fine in Scotland right now. We're competing and we're trying to make sure we're dominating here.
"That's what we need to focus on right now. How can we get better, how can we make sure we're the best team in Scotland? That's the only focus that I have."
Potter: Rangers' focus is beating Celtic
Ahead of facing Celtic in Sunday's Sky Sports Cup semi-final, Rangers head coach Jo Potter - who has played in the WSL - added: "That's not my focus and not something I've been speaking about this week at all. We've got full focus on Celtic this week in a big game for us.
"I feel like the set-up at Rangers is perfect for what we're doing because that's where we are right now. I'm not too sure what will happen in the near future, or if anything does happen.
"What we've got to concentrate on is the game on this Sunday. It is a very big game. We're not here to discuss ifs, buts and maybes."
Celtic and Rangers are now two of the dominant forces in the Scottish women's domestic game since turning professional five years ago.
Rangers won the title in 2022 and Celtic are the reigning champions, after they secured the trophy thanks to a dramatic late goal in the 90th minute last season, while also becoming the first Scottish team to take part in the Women's Champions League.
Glasgow City had been the previous heavyweights in Scotland and currently sit at the top of the league table, five points ahead of Rangers in second and six ahead of Celtic in fourth.
