In today’s episode, Claire breaks down the first week of 2025/26 UWCL action, as the USWNT contingent in the competition grows in size every year. She chats about the level of importance USWNT manager Emma Hayes places on the tournament, and how USWNT players are fairing in the early going of the league phase.
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19:26
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19:26
NWSL changing of the guard
This week, Claire reflects on the retirement of Angel City captain Ali Riley, amidst a larger generational shift in the NWSL that has seen giants of the game step away while young stars rise. How has the league’s new CBA impacted the overall storytelling as the league creates new stars, and has the NWSL taken advantage of a quiet year for the USWNT?
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24:43
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24:43
Do better, Ballon d'Or...
In this week’s episode, Claire reflects on this week’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, breaking down the issues with modern football awards that can leave the women’s game looking like an afterthought, especially for players neither from or playing in Europe.
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22:47
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22:47
Can the NWSL salary cap keep up with stars like Jaedyn Shaw?
In this week’s episode, Claire reflects on the news Jaedyn Shaw is making a record NWSL transfer to Gotham FC, breaking down how million dollar trades work within a salary cap system that nonetheless keeps salaries restricted. She chats transfer growth, salaries vs transfer fees, and why certain players earning big ticket salaries doesn’t end the concerns risen by the high profile transfer of Alyssa Thompson to Chelsea.
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25:14
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25:14
Alyssa Thompson's transfer is concerning for NWSL
In this week’s episode, Claire discusses the implications of Alyssa Thompson’s possible impending transfer to Chelsea, with the WSL season upon us primed to have its biggest season ever, and the NWSL trying to keep up in an ever-shifting global market.
The Late Sub with Claire Watkins brings you the latest news and freshest takes on all things USWNT, NWSL and whatever else is popping off in women's soccer each week. Special guest appearances with the biggest names in women’s sports make The Late Sub a must-listen for every soccer fan.
You can find The Late Sub wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Claire on X/Twitter @ScoutRipley and subscribe to the Just Women’s Sports newsletter for more.
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