Why Aren't Mary Earps and Millie Bright Playing for England in Euro 2025?

England's Euro 2025 Journey: A New Era for the Lionesses

As the excitement builds for Euro 2025, England’s Lionesses are gearing up to defend their championship title. Their journey begins with a highly anticipated match against France, a formidable opponent that promises to test their mettle right from the start. Under the guidance of manager Sarina Wiegman, who has established an impressive track record at the Euros, the team faces a challenging group stage that includes the Netherlands and tournament debutants Wales, often referred to as the 'group of death.'

This year’s tournament brings a mix of thrilling prospects and bittersweet farewells, as several key players from previous competitions will not participate. Notably, the absence of celebrated figures like Mary Earps and Millie Bright raises questions about the team's dynamics and the future of the Lionesses. Let’s explore the reasons behind these significant omissions and what they mean for England’s campaign.

The Legacy of Mary Earps

Mary Earps has become a household name in women’s football, particularly following her outstanding performances in the Euro 2022 and the 2023 World Cup. Her skillful saves, especially during the penalty shootout against Spain, solidified her status as one of the sport's elite goalkeepers. However, the past year has seen a shift in her position within the team. Under Sarina Wiegman’s management, Chelsea's Hannah Hampton was chosen over Earps as the starting goalkeeper.

Just days before the squad announcement for Euro 2025, Earps shocked fans by announcing her retirement from international duty. In her statement, she expressed the complexity of her decision, emphasizing it was not made lightly. She stated, “My journey has never been the simplest, so in true Mary fashion, this isn’t a simple goodbye – right before a major tournament.” Her unexpected retirement has left many wondering about the implications for the team and the emotional toll it takes on a player of her caliber.

The Fallout from Earps’ Decision

The timing of Earps’ announcement has generated considerable discussion, particularly among former players and pundits. Siobhan Chamberlain, a legendary figure in women's football, expressed her belief that the decision caught Wiegman off guard, potentially disrupting her plans for the tournament. “Betrayal is a very harsh word in football,” Chamberlain remarked, “but would Sarina have been angry? Would she have been frustrated? Absolutely.”

Earps’ retirement not only affects the goalkeeper position but also raises questions about team morale and cohesion. As the Lionesses prepare to face tough competition, the absence of such a key player can be felt both on and off the pitch.

Millie Bright: A Leader’s Departure

Millie Bright has been a stalwart for the Lionesses since her debut in 2017, known for her tenacity and leadership qualities. She captained the team during the last World Cup due to Leah Williamson's injury and led Chelsea to a remarkable domestic treble this season. However, the physical and mental strains of the game took their toll, leading Bright to withdraw from the latest squad due to burnout.

In her heartfelt statement regarding her decision, Bright acknowledged the difficulty of stepping back: “This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. Football has given me so much, and representing my country has always been my greatest honour.” Ultimately, she recognized that prioritizing her health was essential for her future and the team, stating, “Right now I’m not able to give 100% mentally or physically.”

The Impact of Bright’s Absence

Bright's absence from Euro 2025 not only depletes the squad of a talented defender but also removes a key leader. Her experience and on-field presence will be missed as the Lionesses navigate through the tournament. The need for robust leadership becomes even more critical as they face challenging teams in their group.

Other Notable Omissions from Euro 2025

The Lionesses’ squad is undergoing a transformation, with a total of ten players from the Euro 2022 squad not making the cut for Euro 2025. Among these are several notable figures:

• Fran Kirby: The talented midfielder announced her retirement from international duty after being informed she would not be included in the squad.
• Jill Scott: A charismatic player and a fan favorite, Scott also retired following Euro 2022.
• Ellen White: The all-time leading scorer for the Lionesses, White has also stepped back from international football.
• Rachel Daly: Another key player who will not join the squad, her absence is felt deeply.
• Steph Houghton: The former captain retired last year, leaving a significant void in leadership.

Along with Bright and Earps, players like Demi Stokes, Nikita Parris, Bethany England, and Ellie Roebuck will also miss out on the tournament. The combination of retirements and omissions raises the stakes as newer players step up to fill the gaps left by these legends.

Preparing for the Future

While the absence of experienced players poses challenges, it also opens the door for emerging talent within the England squad. The Lionesses have a wealth of young players eager to prove themselves on the international stage. As they take on France and other fierce competitors, the focus will be on developing a cohesive team that can adapt and thrive under pressure.

What Lies Ahead for the Lionesses

As England embarks on their Euro 2025 journey, the blend of seasoned players and fresh faces will define their campaign. The managerial prowess of Sarina Wiegman will be put to the test as she navigates the complexities of team dynamics and player development. The Lionesses are known for their resilience and determination, qualities that will be crucial in their quest to retain the title.

Fans will be watching closely to see how the team adapts to these changes and whether they can harness the energy of new talent while respecting the legacy left by those who have stepped back. The road to the final is fraught with challenges, but the Lionesses have shown time and again that they are capable of rising to the occasion.

Conclusion

England’s journey in Euro 2025 is just beginning, and although the absence of key players like Mary Earps and Millie Bright creates a sense of uncertainty, it also presents an opportunity for growth and innovation within the squad. The Lionesses are ready to face their challenges head-on, and as they prepare for a grueling tournament, the spirit of unity and determination will be their greatest asset.

With the match against France on the horizon, all eyes will be on the Lionesses as they aim to prove their mettle in the face of adversity. Will they rise to the occasion and showcase the depth of talent available to them? The stage is set for an exciting tournament, and fans will be eager to witness the unfolding drama of Euro 2025.

FAQs

Why did Mary Earps retire from international football?

Mary Earps announced her retirement from international duty due to personal reasons, stating that the decision was not made lightly and was in the best interest of her future.

What impact does Millie Bright’s absence have on the Lionesses?

Millie Bright’s absence removes a key leader from the squad and affects the defensive strategy. Her experience and skills will be missed as the team faces tough competition.

How many players from the Euro 2022 squad are missing for Euro 2025?

A total of ten players from the Euro 2022 squad will not be participating in Euro 2025, including notable stars like Fran Kirby, Jill Scott, and Ellen White.

As England's Lionesses prepare to take on Euro 2025, how do you think they will adapt to the challenges of a new team dynamic? #Lionesses #Euro2025 #WomenInSport