Plymouth Argyle have informed the vast majority of their women's first-team players that their contracts will not be renewed this summer, just weeks after the team narrowly missed out on promotion to Women's Super League 2. The news was delivered via an email from the club's chief executive, Paul Berne, who described the move as a "difficult decision" reflecting the direction of the squad for next season.
Financial Motives Behind the Decision
According to multiple sources, the primary reason for releasing so many players is financial. The club plans to significantly reduce the women's team's playing budget in the summer. This comes on the heels of the resignation of head coach Marie Hourihan on 28 May, which was believed to be partly influenced by the budget cuts. Hourihan was popular among players and supporters.
Players' Reaction to the Email
In a joint statement released on Sunday evening, the players expressed their dismay: "The decision was communicated through a cold, impersonal email, providing us with no opportunity for open, honest or meaningful dialogue and preventing us from gaining clarity on the situation." They added that the staff and players who gave everything for the badge deserved greater care, respect, and empathy.
The email from Berne read: "Hi all. Following our end-of-season review and planning for 2026-27, we wanted to let you know that we won’t be renewing contracts for the players included in this message." It acknowledged the players' effort and commitment and offered support in finding new opportunities.
Season Performance and Coach Resignation
Plymouth finished second in the Southern section of the FA Women's National League this term, just one point behind champions Watford. Under Hourihan, the team achieved 16 wins in 22 league fixtures, finishing above clubs like Bournemouth and former WSL2 sides Oxford United and Lewes. The second-place finish led to a playoff decider against Wolverhampton Wanderers on 4 May, where Plymouth lost 1-0 despite creating several chances and hitting the woodwork late on.
Hourihan's resignation statement thanked the senior leadership but noted it was time to consider her next steps. The vast majority of the squad were on one-year contracts, common in lower leagues of women's football. The timing of the news shocked players, leaving them with little time to find new teams. A source close to the squad described the situation as "heartbreaking."
