Right after England’s thrilling win at the 2025 Euros, there was even more joyful news lighting up the football world. Ella Toone, the talented Manchester United midfielder and one of the stars of the victorious Lionesses squad, has just announced her engagement to longtime boyfriend Joe Bunney.
Fans got a glimpse into their special moment thanks to Ella’s heartfelt Instagram post, where she shared beautiful pictures from their romantic proposal getaway.
The Perfect Proposal in Ibiza
Ella and Joe’s engagement took place during a dreamy holiday in Ibiza, Spain.
Joe popped the big question in front of an enchanting archway adorned with vibrant red roses, complete with a charming sign asking, “Will you marry me?” Their son Arlo, who’s just four years old, made the moment even sweeter by holding a red rose and the engagement ring as Joe asked Ella to be his forever.
Ella looked stunning in a cream crochet dress, radiating happiness as she said yes and embraced Joe with plenty of affection.
She couldn’t wait to show off her sparkling new diamond ring to her 831,000 Instagram followers, captioning the post simply with, “Forever… 04/08/25.”
Friends and Fans Celebrate the Couple
The happy news sparked an outpouring of congratulations from Ella’s celebrity friends and fellow athletes.
Dame Kelly Holmes chimed in with a warm “Congratulats,” while teammate Chloe Kelly shared, “Wow so perfect girl, wishing you both all the happiness in the world.”
Former footballer Carly Telford and reality TV personality Tanya Bardsley also sent their heartfelt well wishes in the comments, making it clear just how loved Ella and Joe are in their circles.
A Three-Year Romance With Football Ties
Though the couple has kept much of their relationship private, it’s been known they’ve been together for at least three years.
Joe Bunney, a non-league footballer playing for Stalybridge Celtic, also happens to be a devoted Manchester City fan — a fun contrast since Ella plays for rival club Manchester United.
But despite the rivalry, Joe has always supported Ella’s career wholeheartedly.
Joe also coaches at Ella’s ET7 Academy, which is dedicated to mentoring young girls who dream of playing football, showing that football truly runs deep in their family.
Their Ibiza trip and engagement come on the heels of a monumental moment in Ella’s career — the Lionesses defending their European crown in an epic final against Spain.
Triumph and Heartbreak on the Same Day
The Lionesses’ victory was sealed after a tense penalty shootout, with Chloe Kelly scoring the winning penalty that made history.
Ella started in the final and was subbed off late in the game, as the score remained tied during a nail-biting 90 minutes.
However, the celebrations were bittersweet for Ella.
Just hours before the final kicked off, she tragically lost her beloved grandmother, affectionately known as Nanna Maz.
Ella shared the heartbreaking news days later on Instagram, posting a touching tribute to her nan with photos and emotional words.
Remembering Nanna Maz
Ella’s tribute captured the complex mix of joy and grief she experienced, writing: “Even in the highest of highs life can hit you with the lowest of lows.”
She took comfort in knowing her grandmother got to watch the game “from the best seat in the house,” alongside her dad, Nanna Maz’s favorite person.
Ella described her grandmother as her “football loving, crazy, funny Nan” and expressed deep gratitude for the memories they shared, saying, “I’ll miss you forever nan but I’ll cherish the special memories we made.”
