Former England international Alex Scott has stepped away from Disney+'s Women's Champions League coverage after only two match rounds. The streaming platform is currently in the second season of a five-year deal for European football's flagship competition and had introduced new presentation styles, including a watchalong format alternating Scott with Shebahn Aherne. However, Disney+ encountered technical difficulties and faced scrutiny over an unscheduled advertising break during Arsenal's meeting with HB Koge. Scott did not give a reason for her departure, but told BBC Sport she was "grateful" for the opportunity and hoped to "continue working together" in the future.
Scott's sudden exit comes amid wider discussions regarding media coverage in the women's game, which has experienced an explosion in interest over the last five years spearheaded by the BBC and Sky Sports. While Disney+ introduced unconventional elementsโincluding bringing a dog on setโScott launched her own Sunday night YouTube show, One More Word WSL, alongside former Lionesses Anita Asante and Fara Williams. Long-time women's sports journalist Carrie Dunn noted that networks face identity questions, remarking that "broadcasters are finding is that they are not sure who the audience is," as targeting a new generation amid budget cuts risks leaving long-time supporters behind.
The shifting broadcast landscape was further illustrated over the summer when the BBC revealed its Women's Super League highlights programme would not return for the 2026-27 season. Insisting it remains committed to the sport, the broadcaster cited a move away from linear television in favour of digital output, including an iPlayer-exclusive debate series titled The Women's Football Fallout, a dedicated YouTube channel, and online analysis. Dunn pointed out that while experimenting with coverage is welcome, networks must still find a way to inform newcomers without alienating established fans, emphasizing that platforms must first deliver decent live match coverage.
Across the Women's Super League, managers have welcomed ongoing media innovation despite the growing pains. Aston Villa interim manager Brian Sorensen viewed the changes as healthy "trial and error," noting significant advancements since he started coaching in Denmark in 2009. Manchester City manager Andree Jeglertz stressed that maximum broadcast accessibility is what matters most for supporters, while Tottenham boss Martin Ho reiterated that teams must focus on staging an attractive product on the pitch. Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor advocated for patience, explaining that whenever networks try fresh approaches, they will inevitably "please some people and upset others."