Burnley US coach Jackie Bachteler steers Women into WSL 2 debut

At Turf Moor, Burnley US coach Jackie Bachteler arrived to lead the Women as they prepare for their inaugural WSL 2 campaign, marking a historic step for the club. The 37‑year‑old American expressed excitement about joining the local community and building a strong fanbase.

Burnley Women have appointed Jackie Bachteler as manager as they prepare to join the Women's Super League 2, a milestone for the club. The appointment formalises the club's ambition to compete at a higher level.

Bachteler, a 37‑year‑old US national, said she wants to embed the side within the local community and expand its supporter base. Her enthusiasm reflects a clear vision for the team’s growth.

Ross Wallace will stay at the club as assistant manager after a successful spell as interim manager in the second half of last season’s title win. His continued involvement provides stability as the team transitions into a higher division.

Joining Bachteler on the coaching staff are first‑team coach Ashley Vickers and goalkeeping coach Jordan Booth, completing an expanded team. The trio will work together to implement the new manager’s vision for the side.

"I'm really happy to be here. I want to be part of the community here," Bachteler said, recalling the atmosphere at the final game of last season against Stoke City with more than 1,000 supporters in attendance. She added that fans will see an organised, physical, positive and forward‑thinking team that will be fun to watch.

Before coaching, Bachteler played as a midfielder and then built an international coaching career across the United States, Finland, Spain, Cyprus, Costa Rica and Sweden. Her varied experience includes roles at clubs in each of those countries, enriching her tactical perspective.

She has also coached several clubs in the Damallsvenskan, Sweden's top tier, and served as Sporting Director at BP Fotboll in Stockholm. These positions added senior management experience to her résumé.

Since 2023 she has been an assistant coach at San Diego Wave, helping the side win the National Women's Soccer League Shield and Challenge Cup. The success in the United States highlights her ability to contribute to winning environments.

While at Burnley, Bachteler will continue to act as a scout for the US Women’s National Team, linking the club to the international game. Burnley’s director of football development Paul Jenkins said, "I'm delighted to be able to welcome Jackie into our Women's coaching set‑up. It's an exciting time for the team with new players, an expanded staff and pre‑season now well underway." He added confidence that the upcoming season will be a historic debut for the team in the WSL 2.