Southampton director of women's football Marieanne Spacey-Cale to step down
Southampton's director of women's football, Marieanne Spacey-Cale, has announced her intention to leave the club later this year.
Southampton's director of women's football, Marieanne Spacey-Cale, has announced she will step down from her role later this year. Since joining in 2018, she has been a pivotal figure in the club's women's set-up.
Spacey-Cale was instrumental in the development of the women's and girls' programme. During her tenure as first-team head coach, she led the team to back-to-back promotions in 2021 and 2022, securing their place in WSL 2.
It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to leave Southampton FC after an incredible eight years at the club. Marieanne Spacey-Cale
Her departure follows reports earlier this month that Southampton are significantly scaling back investment in their women's side. The move comes amid stricter licensing criteria introduced in 2025 for clubs in England's top two tiers, which has forced several teams to adjust their operations to meet new regulatory standards.