Building the Pipeline - Investing in the Next Generation of Women’s Football

Having worked extensively with clubs across 35 countries at varying levels in European women’s football, we’ve developed a deep understanding of the current landscape for girls’ talent pathways. The passion is clear, but in many cases, the infrastructure, systems, and investment needed to support long-term development still fall short.

Many clubs still lack foundational tools to support girls on and off the pitch. On the club side, we found that only half provide consistent medical onboarding procedures. Mental health support, safeguarding, and education on the menstrual cycle are unevenly implemented. Performance tracking relies largely on manual systems, while specialist coaching (particularly for goalkeepers) remains underdeveloped. Too often, the burden of operations falls on the coaching staff due to a lack of dedicated team managers or support roles.

For national associations, the findings are equally urgent. In many countries, there is a significant disconnect between the youth system and senior women’s teams. National regulations may incentivise early exposure to senior football, but without structured transition plans, this can harm player development. Additionally, an absence of competitive, well-organised domestic leagues across age groups means that too few girls experience high-quality, regular matches that truly prepare them for elite-level football.

These gaps are not just operational; they represent lost potential. When young players drop out or don’t reach their ceiling because of a lack of support, the whole ecosystem suffers. Clubs lose future stars. National teams lose depth and diversity. And the sport loses credibility in its promise of equal opportunity.

That’s why investing in structured, professionalized youth development is not a “nice to have”; it is the foundation for long-term success. It ensures that girls receive the same level of care, attention, and opportunity as their male peers, and that the women’s game can sustain its current growth trajectory in a way that’s both competitive and inclusive.

Encouragingly, our research also shows that change is happening. Across Europe, more clubs are committing to developing tangible strategic plans for women’s and girls’ football. Over two-thirds now operate with a clear football philosophy and long-term development plan. Clubs are continuing to invest in full-time staff, improve access to high-quality facilities, and offer individual development plans that reflect the unique needs of each player. National associations, too, are exploring ways to incentivise club-trained players and build stronger domestic competition structures. These are critical steps, and they’re already having an impact.

The momentum is real. Now is the time to accelerate it. Clubs and associations that invest boldly in their girls’ pathways will not only produce more homegrown talent but also create the conditions for lasting success on the pitch, in the boardroom, and in their communities.

At Sportsology Group, we work with both clubs and national associations to close these gaps. Drawing from our recent research and global expertise, we help organisations:

• Build integrated operating models that align women’s and girls’ football within wider club and federation strategies.

• Support with crucial executive searches in key leadership and Head coaching in women’s football.

• Strengthen the player pathway by developing clear progression plans from grassroots to senior football, on and off the pitch.

The Women’s Euro 2025 should be seen as a celebration of how far the women’s game has come, but it should also serve as a reminder of what is important to consider to continue its evolution. Every club and association has a role to play in ensuring that talent is not just identified but nurtured, supported, and given the chance to thrive.

Curious about the findings of the study? Please feel free to reach out.