England Women’s goalkeeper Mary Earps has stunned the football world by announcing her retirement from international duty just five weeks before the start of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.
The 31-year-old, who played a pivotal role in England’s historic Euro 2022 triumph and was instrumental in their run to the 2023 World Cup final, has called time on her international career after earning 53 caps for the Lionesses.
Her decision comes after she lost her position as England’s first-choice goalkeeper to Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton. Despite expectations that she would still be named in the squad for the upcoming Euros, even in a supporting role, Earps has chosen to step away entirely.
The announcement has taken many by surprise, particularly given the timing so close to a major tournament. Head coach Sarina Wiegman expressed her disappointment, stating, “I had hoped Mary would play an important role in our title defence this summer.”
Earps, currently with Paris Saint-Germain, joined her teammates at St George’s Park on Monday not to train, but to personally inform them of her retirement. Sources within the England camp described the meeting as “emotional” and “difficult,” highlighting the close bond Earps shared with her fellow players and staff.
Discussions between Earps and Wiegman over her role within the squad had been ongoing for several months, reflecting their strong working relationship. Nonetheless, the final decision has left England’s coaching staff and players saddened and surprised.
Earps has been a defining figure in England’s recent success, starting every match at Euro 2022 and the 2023 World Cup. Her leadership and presence on and off the pitch will be sorely missed as the Lionesses prepare to defend their European crown.
England will now move forward without one of their most experienced and respected figures as they enter the final stretch of preparations for Euro 2025.
Report by Kelvin Papa Sackey for Asaase News in Greater Accra
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