We’ve seen our fair share of breaking up with Brexit – but now it’s happening in football.
Millwall Lionesses say they will end their link with Millwall FC and go solo, after almost 50 years together,
The former will compete as an independent club next season: London City Lionesses.
History
In the 1980s, the Lionesses became the first club to be associated with a men’s professional side.
With significant history in bringing men and women together, Millwall’s split may change the way we see gender in football.
What now?
The Lionesses will take part in the Women’s 2019-20 Championship. It is not clear which league they will they go into however.
Millwall Lionesses were bottom of this year’s Women’s championship. The Millwall Community Trust will now be in charge.
Fan base
Millwall Lionesses’ fans have previously saved them. In April 2018 crowdfunding donations of £17,500 stopped them from going into administration.
Tweets show mixed responses from the public:
The automatic reaction here will likely be to criticise #Millwall – but this was the #Lionesses’ decision to breakaway. https://t.co/46LovikcDn
— Lucas Ball (@LucasBall2211) May 13, 2019
So my understanding is that @millwalllioness have been stolen and will keep current league status but the team that gave birth to them we have to re enter the league at a lower level #theft #MillwallLionesses #Millwall
— Daniel Brown (@danbrown0703) May 13, 2019
How do the clubs feel?
Millwall FC said in a statement yesterday: “The club is disappointed that the Lionesses’ current hierarchy have decided to become independent.”
Millwall wishes London City Lionesses the best of luck for the future.
“The Lionesses will always be a key part of Millwall Football Club,” the club said. “Their tradition and heritage is a source of immense pride.”
