Mary Earps Announces Shock Retirement from England Duty Ahead of Euro 2025

Breaking News: Lionesses Star Steps Away from International Football

Professional English footballer Mary Earps has retired, with immediate effect, ahead of the 2025 European Championship in Switzerland. The announcement sent shockwaves through women’s football, coming just 36 days before the tournament where England would defend their European title.

A Decorated International Career Comes to an End

With 53 senior caps for her country and countless individual accolades including two FIFA Best Awards and a World Cup golden glove, the decision will confirm her absence for the forthcoming UEFA European Championship in Switzerland this summer. Earps received her first cap in 2017 and was an ever-present in the Lionesses’ historic home UEFA EURO 2022 success and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign in Australia.

The goalkeeper’s timing surprised many in the football community. The 2022 Women’s Euros winner has decided to walk away from her England career after losing her place as first-choice goalkeeper to Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton. However, Earps has been clear that her decision involved multiple factors beyond simply losing the number one spot.

Personal Reflections and Future Plans

In her retirement statement, Earps expressed mixed emotions about her decision. For me, ultimately this is the right time for me to step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive. She described her England career as ‘the greatest honour and privilege’ of her life.

Although she is retiring from international football, Mary Earps will still play club football, after joining Paris Saint-Germain from Manchester United last year. The 32-year-old continues to showcase her talents in the French top division, whilst Hannah Hampton has assumed England’s number one position.

Impact and Legacy

England manager Sarina Wiegman acknowledged Earps’ contributions whilst accepting her decision. The decision has come as a surprise this close to a major tournament, with head coach Sarina Wiegman admitting she “had hoped Mary would play an important role” as England defend their title this summer.

Despite stepping away from international duty, Earps’ impact on English football remains undeniable. Mary Earps, despite retiring from international football, travelled to Switzerland to support her former England teammates at Euro 2025. Her legacy as a Euro 2022 champion and World Cup Golden Glove winner will inspire future generations of goalkeepers. As women’s football continues to grow in England, Earps’ contribution to that journey will be remembered as pivotal in elevating the game to new heights.