England’s preparations for Euro 2025 are underway, but despite the glitzy squad announcement and an atmosphere charged with optimism, some lingering doubts remain about the team’s depth, harmony, and player welfare. With just a month to go until their opening match against France, Sarina Wiegman’s 23-player squad largely meets expectations but raises questions that could impact the Lionesses’ title defence.
The squad features familiar names and promising talents, including Lauren James, who has fought hard to be fit, and young Arsenal forward Michelle Agyemang, the wildcard pick. Defensively, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Esme Morgan have earned their places. Yet, certain gaps are notable. The absence of experienced goalkeeper Mary Earps leaves a void, and the midfield, with only five named players, appears thin especially as Georgia Stanway has had minimal game time since December.
Wiegman is confident about the squad’s flexibility, pointing out that players like James can operate in advanced midfield roles, captain Leah Williamson and Maya Le Tissier can slot into deeper midfield positions, and Lauren Hemp could also shift centrally if required. However, these adjustments would likely be emergency measures, weakening the players’ original positions and potentially destabilizing the team balance.
The Lionesses have experienced significant changes since their victorious home Euros in 2022. The retirements of Fran Kirby and Mary Earps, along with Millie Bright’s withdrawal from selection due to mental and physical health concerns, have removed much-needed experience. These departures, each with its own circumstances, raise concerns about squad cohesion and the overall environment within the team.
In previous tournaments, the unity between players, staff, media, and fans created a powerful sense of togetherness. However, recent seasons have exposed cracks. At the 2023 World Cup, public disputes over bonuses revealed frustrations with the Football Association. Although those issues have since been resolved, the sudden exits of key players shortly before Euro 2025 cast shadows over squad harmony.
Despite speculation of internal friction, Wiegman dismissed any notion of a crisis. She emphasized the competitive nature within the group and expressed satisfaction and excitement about the team heading into the tournament. Still, the questions linger: why did Earps decide to step away instead of mentoring the next generation through a major championship? What pressures led to Bright’s withdrawal due to health struggles? These concerns highlight the need for a more comprehensive, player-centered approach to welfare and support.
Wiegman has earned praise for her candid communication style, which brought clarity and stability when she took over before Euro 2022. Yet honesty can sometimes create tension, especially when delivering difficult news. She acknowledges the challenges of managing such dynamics, stating that while she provides clear messages, she cannot control individual responses. Maintaining transparency and treating players fairly remain her priorities as the squad moves forward.
The details of the conversations between Wiegman and departing players like Earps and Kirby are private, and it remains unclear how much the coach understood about Bright’s struggles before her decision. Nevertheless, the focus must now shift to preparing the team for the challenges ahead.
England enters Euro 2025 as defending champions, a status that brings pressure and expectation. While the squad possesses quality and potential, it also faces hurdles in depth, experience, and wellbeing. The true test will come on the pitch in Switzerland, where the impact of recent turmoil and structural challenges will become clear. For now, the Lionesses must harness their talent, manage their vulnerabilities, and strive to maintain the unity that powered their past success. The work off the field, especially regarding player welfare, will be as important as the tactical battles on it if England are to defend their crown with confidence and resilience.
