With a career spanning over 20 years, coach Laura Harvey knows quite a bit about the different leagues across the world. Having coached the likes of Birmingham and Arsenal and managing in the Champions League, Seattle Reign in the NWSL was not expected to be the biggest challenge for her. Years after taking over, her comments regarding the quality of the league have surprised many, while also highlighting the NWSL is untouchable in one regard!

She is currently in her second stint with the Seattle Reign. Previously, she had been the assistant coach for the USWNT, where she worked with the likes of Megan Rapinoe & Julie Ertz.

Laura Harvey likens ‘really difficult’ NWSL to European soccer!

The English tactician seems to admire the quality level of the NWSL. In a recent interview, she said, “I think one thing you know about the NWSL, is it’s really difficult to play in. For me, it’s like playing in the Champions League every weekend. ” She also spoke about the reasons that make the NWSL so challenging. Laura Harvey revealed, “The pace at which the games are played in this league is like international level.” However, that was not the only positive stated by the veteran.

She added that the league should continue to build on the soccer side of things. As per her, this could be achieved by providing players with the best training environments, facilities, and thorough support off the field. However, she did mention what separates the NWSL from the other leagues. Harvey added, “Commercially and as brands and as markets, there’s nothing like the NWSL around the world. ”

While a seemingly tall claim, Laura Harvey is bang on with the commercial aspect. In fact, 2023 was a record-breaking year for the National Women’s Soccer League and it looks like 2024 will be even better.

The ever-rising popularity of women’s soccer in the US

NWSL witnessed record-breaking attendance in 2023, with 1.2 million fans attending matches. Two more franchises are due to join in 2024 with further additions planned in 2026. Moreover, it was only recently that the league reached a record-breaking media rights deal with multiple broadcasting partners. A key reason for the commercial success has been the improved quality of matches.

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Megan Rapinoe’s final game was the second most-watched game in the NWSL’s history. The new broadcasting rights will inject further cash into the league and will help to attract better players. Hence, the masses seem to be in line with Harvey’s analysis of the league’s quality. However, is it really on par with the Champions League? Tell us in the comments below.

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