London City Lionesses Part Ways With Prêcheur Despite Solid WSL Start

London City Lionesses have dismissed head coach Jocelyn Prêcheur midway through their debut Women’s Super League campaign, a surprise decision that comes with the club sitting sixth in the table after 11 matches.

Prêcheur arrived from Paris Saint Germain last summer and immediately delivered promotion, guiding London City into the WSL in his first season. Despite a return of 15 points from 11 games and a stable first half of life in the top flight, the club has chosen to move in a different direction.

The decision follows an ambitious summer backed by owner Michele Kang, highlighted by the signing of Grace Geyoro from PSG in a world record transfer worth £1.43 million, according to sources. Expectations were high, and while results have been competitive, London City believe change is necessary at this stage of their project.

The club confirmed the move in a statement, praising Prêcheur’s impact on their recent history. London City highlighted his role in securing historic promotion and becoming the first independent club to reach the WSL, while stressing that the decision reflects a shift toward a new strategic cycle rather than short term results.

London City’s first season in the WSL has been marked by steady performances rather than spectacle. The team has shown organisation and resilience, picking up points consistently while adapting to the pace and physicality of the division. Early matches suggested a side capable of holding its own, even if consistency has proved elusive.

There have been no major controversies or flashpoints behind the scenes, with the club insisting the move followed careful internal review. Attention now turns to how quickly London City can stabilise and whether an interim or permanent successor will be appointed before a demanding run of fixtures.

On the pitch, moments of quality have justified the club’s investment, particularly in midfield, where Geyoro has brought control and experience. However, London City have often struggled to turn promising spells into decisive results, an issue that has lingered throughout the campaign.

The second half of the season will now be shaped by transition. Tactical adjustments and squad response will be closely watched as the club looks to protect its top half position and continue building credibility in the league.

Elsewhere in English football, Arsenal continue to manage Gabriel Jesus’ return from injury, with the forward yet to start a match since his comeback. Declan Rice, meanwhile, has emerged as a dominant figure in midfield and earned glowing praise from Wayne Rooney after Arsenal’s narrow win at Everton, with the former England captain describing Rice as the natural heir to Harry Kane’s armband.

For London City Lionesses, the focus is firmly forward. Survival is well within reach, but the next appointment will define whether this ambitious project simply consolidates or accelerates toward its long term vision at the top of the women’s game.