After a bit of time away from the TV cameras, Ian Wright is set to return as a pundit for England’s crucial Euro 2025 semi-final clash against Italy—and it’s not just the match everyone’s watching closely.
His return also comes after a public fallout with former Lioness Eni Aluko, making this comeback especially notable.
Arsenal Legend Joins Star-Studded Panel for ITV’s Coverage
According to The Telegraph, Wright, 61, will be part of ITV’s coverage on Tuesday night when the Lionesses take on Italy at the Stade de Genève.
He’ll be alongside a strong lineup that includes former Chelsea manager Emma Hayes, England legend Karen Carney, and popular presenter Laura Woods.
Even though Wright wasn’t initially included in ITV’s tournament coverage, his name still carried weight in the conversation around women’s football.
Throughout the Euros, he’s been giving his takes on the Crossways podcast, which he co-hosts with ex-England captain Steph Houghton.
Returning to Lionesses Coverage After Tense Public Dispute
This semi-final appearance will mark Wright’s first official TV punditry role for the Lionesses since a much-talked-about clash with Eni Aluko earlier this year.
Aluko had accused Wright of inadvertently crowding out space for female pundits in the women’s game, claiming that his continued presence made it harder for women trying to break into broadcasting.
Back in April, she spoke out on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, saying:
“We need to make sure that women are not being blocked from having a pathway into broadcasting in the women’s game.”
She acknowledged Wright’s talent and said she respected him, but felt it was important for him to be aware of how much airtime he was occupying in the women’s football space.
Aluko Offers Apology, But Wright Isn’t Ready to Accept
The situation took another turn when Aluko offered a public apology, admitting she had been wrong to suggest Wright was blocking opportunities. However, Wright didn’t accept it.
He responded publicly, saying he was “very disappointed” in Aluko’s remarks.
“She knows how I’ve helped her, supported her publicly, and I know the previous conversations she’s had with me and my management,” he said.
The tension between the two, both respected voices in football, stirred up a wider debate about diversity, representation, and allyship in the broadcasting world.
Aluko Reflects and Acknowledges Her Mistake
Just last week, Aluko publicly stated she regretted how she framed her comments, acknowledging that Wright did not deserve to be called out in that way.
She also said she respected his decision not to accept her apology and shared that she’d made private efforts to mend things between them.
Despite the disagreement, Aluko reiterated that she continues to respect Wright’s work and dedication to the women’s game.
All Eyes on the Match—and the Commentary Team
As England face Italy with a second consecutive Euro final within reach, fans will not only be tuned in for the football but also for the dynamic among the ITV pundits.
Wright’s return, in light of the recent controversy, is bound to draw attention—not just for his football insights, but for what it says about growth, accountability, and passion for the game.
What’s next for the Lionesses—and for the voices covering them—is anyone’s guess.
But Tuesday night is shaping up to be a must-watch for more reasons than one.