London City Lionesses have made a statement of intent after promotion to the Women’s Super League by completing the signing of Netherlands midfielder Daniëlle van de Donk.
The independently run club, who will play in the WSL for the first time next season after winning the Women’s Championship title in May, have acquired the 33-year-old on a free transfer from record eight-time European champions Lyon, recently renamed as OL Lyonnes, after the conclusion of her contract. OL Lyonnes are, like London City Lionesses, owned by the American businesswoman Michele Kang.
Van de Donk won the WSL title winner with Arsenal in 2019 and was also part of the Netherlands squad that won the 2017 Women’s European Championship and reached the final of the 2019 World Cup. She has signed a two-year contract with London City, who have made no secret of their ambitions to disrupt the established big names of women’s football in England.
“I’m feeling really good,” said Van de Donk, who is London City’s first signing of the transfer window. “It’s such a nice environment to be in, the club really appeals to me, it reminds me of a little family, and I want to be a part of it. The project that London City have, it’s different but in a good way. London City have to battle for everything and that’s my style.”
News of Van de Donk’s return to the WSL came as the Football Association formally approved the expansion of the division from 12 to 14 clubs from the 2026-27 season.
Third-tier Burnley have confirmed the two-time former WSL title-winning coach Matt Beard as their manager, in one of the highest-profile managerial appointments in Women’s National League history.
The former Liverpool manager, whom the Guardian exclusively revealed on Wednesday was in advanced discussions with Burnley, told the club’s media channels: “I’m so impressed with everybody I’ve met at the club and the conversations I’ve had, and I’m looking forward to getting started.”
The former Chelsea and West Ham manager arrives with the club preparing to become a full-time women’s football operation from next season.
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