Fri Sep 20 14:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Irish Women’s Soccer Stars Ready for WSL Season, with Eyes on Euro 2025

**LONDON -** With the English Women’s Super League (WSL) season kicking off this weekend, Republic of Ireland manager Eileen Gleeson is looking forward to having her full complement of foreign-based players back in action. While the summer brought speculation about transfers for key players like Katie McCabe and Denise O’Sullivan, most stayed put, with McCabe remaining at Arsenal and O’Sullivan signing a new contract with North Carolina Courage.

A notable change came with the departure of Megan Connolly, who moved from Bristol City to Lazio in Italy. Other transfers saw Jessie Stapleton move on loan from West Ham to Sunderland, and Erin McLaughlin joining Portsmouth from Peamount United.

However, the most unfortunate news came with the injury to West Ham’s Jess Ziu, who suffered a second anterior cruciate ligament injury in a preseason friendly. This setback will likely sideline her for the entire season.

Despite Ziu’s absence, Ireland’s WSL contingent remains strong with a total of 15 players across various clubs. Notable additions include Hayley Nolan, Izzy Atkinson, and Abbie Larkin, who join Crystal Palace after their promotion from the Championship.

While the new additions might see increased competition for playing time, their presence adds further depth to the Irish national team.

Gleeson will be hoping her players stay healthy and gain consistent playing time to prepare for the crucial Euro 2025 play-off matches against Georgia in a month’s time. The manager will be closely watching players across various leagues, including those in the English Championship, Scotland, and even Italy and the United States, ensuring she keeps a close eye on all potential Irish internationals.

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