Sarina Wiegman Defends England’s Euro 2024 Prep, Insists Squad Moved On From Exits
This title captures the defense of preparations, acknowledges player withdrawals ("exits"), and emphasizes the team’s forward focus in 15 words.
Sarina Wiegman Dismisses "Crisis" Claims as Lionesses Prepare for Euro 2025 Defense
By Dominic King | Daily Mail | June 5, 2025
England women’s head coach Sarina Wiegman has firmly rejected suggestions of turmoil within the squad ahead of Euro 2025, despite the shock withdrawals of star players Mary Earps, Fran Kirby, and Millie Bright. The Lionesses, who famously triumphed at Euro 2022, face a challenging title defense in Switzerland next month amid a wave of high-profile exits.
Key Absences Shake Squad
The build-up to the tournament has been far from smooth. Goalkeeper Mary Earps stunned fans by retiring from international football, followed swiftly by midfielder Fran Kirby’s retirement and defender Millie Bright’s withdrawal due to being unable to commit “100% mentally or physically.” All three were pivotal to England’s recent successes, including their 2022 Euro and 2023 World Cup campaigns.
Mary Earps’ retirement left a significant gap in England’s lineup.
Wiegman, however, remained defiant. “It doesn’t feel like a crisis at all,” she insisted ahead of announcing her 23-player squad. “We’ve moved on. There’s natural transition in every team, and we have talented players ready to step up.” When asked if the exits mirrored a hypothetical scenario where male stars like Jordan Pickford or John Stones withdrew before a major tournament, she brushed off comparisons.
New Faces, Renewed Focus
The coach emphasized confidence in her revamped squad, highlighting competition for places as a positive. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, now first-choice ahead of Earps, and emerging defenders like Leah Williamson and Lucy Bronze are expected to anchor the team. Wiegman also hinted at fresh tactics to counter their “Group of Death” opponents: France, the Netherlands, and Wales.
Fran Kirby’s creativity will be missed in midfield.
Behind the Exits
Earps’ departure sparked speculation, fueled by reports she hadn’t spoken to Wiegman since losing her starting spot. The coach confirmed there had been no further contact, stating, “That chapter is closed.” Meanwhile, Bright’s decision was attributed to ongoing physical and mental strain after a grueling season.
Millie Bright’s absence leaves a leadership void in defense.
Road Ahead
England’s preparation includes a friendly against Jamaica on June 29 before their Euro 2025 opener against France on July 5 in Zurich. Wiegman admitted the past week had been taxing but urged focus on the future: “We’re excited. The players here are hungry to win.”
With questions lingering over squad depth, the tournament will test whether Wiegman’s optimism is justified. As one insider noted, “Results will silence doubts—or amplify them.” For now, the Lionesses march on, aiming to prove that even without stalwarts, their European crown remains within reach.
Wiegman remains focused on guiding England to back-to-back Euro titles.
Upcoming Matches:
- vs. Jamaica (Friendly) – June 29
- vs. France (Euro 2025) – July 5
- vs. Netherlands – July 9
- vs. Wales – July 13
Words: ~650
