London City Lionesses are set to hand captain Kosovare Asllani a one-year contract extension — even though the club acknowledges it is unlikely she will play for them again. The decision is a straightforward one rooted in welfare and long-term investment: keep a 36-year-old with over 200 Sweden caps stable while she recovers from a complex multi-ligament injury, including an anterior cruciate ligament rupture, confirmed by the club in March.

Asllani's existing deal was due to expire this summer. Rather than let her leave at a vulnerable point in her rehabilitation, London City have offered a further year, with the primary purpose of supporting her recovery rather than adding to the squad's immediate playing resources. It is, in effect, a medical contract — and a telling signal of how owner Michele Kang runs the club.

What the numbers say

In 19 WSL appearances last season — London City's debut campaign in the top flight — Asllani contributed two goals and three assists. Not prolific by any measure, but she was a consistent presence as Eder Maestre's side finished sixth. More significantly, she was central to the promotion run that delivered WSL 2 success in 2024-25. Her playing contribution over two years at the club justifies the loyalty being shown now.

The Women's World Cup in Brazil next year adds an extra dimension. Asllani, Sweden's long-serving captain, will be aiming to recover in time to feature in that tournament. At 36, it could realistically be her last major competition at international level, which makes the continuity of a club environment all the more important to her chances of getting there.

Part of a bigger picture at London City

The Asllani extension sits alongside a remarkably active summer for London City. The club have already confirmed the arrivals of two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas from Barcelona, Spain centre-back Mapi León, former England goalkeeper Mary Earps, Denmark defender Janni Thomsen, and Germany forward Nicole Anyomi. The club are also understood to be pursuing at least one more attacking option.

Midfielder Malou Marcetto, who suffered multiple knee ligament tears in the final WSL fixture of the season, is reported to have made positive early progress following surgery — another injury situation the club are managing carefully.

London City operate independently of any men's team and are funded by Kang, who has been vocal about directing proper medical and financial resources into women's football. The Asllani deal is the clearest example yet of that philosophy in practice: the club absorbing the cost of a serious injury rather than moving on.

What it means going forward

Sixth place in their first WSL season gives London City a reasonable platform, and the summer recruitment — headlined by Putellas — points to genuine ambitions around a Champions League qualification spot next term. Whether Asllani features in those plans at all will depend entirely on the pace of her recovery.

For now, the extension removes any uncertainty about where she will be based during what will be a demanding rehabilitation process. For a club still building its identity in the top flight, keeping its captain on-side — even off the pitch — carries its own value.

Frequently asked

How long is Kosovare Asllani's new contract at London City Lionesses?
Asllani is set to sign a one-year extension, taking her beyond the summer 2025 expiry of her existing deal. The new contract is primarily intended to support her recovery from a serious knee injury.
What injury has Kosovare Asllani suffered?
London City Lionesses confirmed in March that Asllani suffered a complex multi-ligament injury that includes an anterior cruciate ligament rupture. She is unlikely to play for the club during the coming season.
Who has London City Lionesses signed this summer?
London City have made a number of high-profile signings including Alexia Putellas, Mapi León, Mary Earps, Janni Thomsen, and Nicole Anyomi, with further additions reportedly being pursued.