Heard something like 25 turned up to the first Wellington United training but that could be for both of their womens teams otherwise there are going to be a fair few players missing out and looking to transfer back to other clubs. Have heard WU has been contacting girls about coming to play for them not with the offer of money but being able to play Central League and also possible of dutch exchange.
AFAIK, there aren't that many new first-team players. They've picked up Briar Palmer (with the PEC Zwolle 'bribe'), Maya Hahn (from Wests/Ole), and Topaz (from Petone). Maya and Topaz went on the pre-season tour (they were the only `new' players there). There's also Maia Green (from Palmy), and some other younger ones that will probably play reserves. They might lose a couple, but I don't think they'll mind very much.
25 for two teams (they do train together a fair bit) is a bit on the small side. I know there are a bunch around the 14-16 age who might get a game or two in the W-League but will probably play reserves.
Last year, they had a squad of 18 (I know they've lost 3, maybe 4), and played 16 of them most games. I expect that with the change to rolling subs the squad players will get more game time.
I'd put Upper Hutt as favourites though - they've signed CJ Bott and Sarah Gregarious, giving a very good spine.