Just when fans thought they had a good idea of what England’s lineup might look like for the European Championship this summer, head coach Sarina Wiegman shook things up with a few bold decisions.
Her 23-player squad, revealed on Thursday, includes a mix of rising stars, seasoned names, and surprising omissions—and it’s already got everyone talking.
Lauren James Makes the Cut Despite Injury Concerns
One of the most talked-about decisions?
The inclusion of Chelsea’s Lauren James.
Though she’s been out of action since suffering a hamstring injury during an April Nations League match against Belgium, Wiegman decided to take a chance on the 22-year-old.
James hasn’t played since then, but the manager insists she’s “progressing really well” in her recovery.
James was one of the breakout stars at the 2023 World Cup, and her creativity and attacking flair have quickly made her a fan favorite.
Betting on her fitness could be risky—but the reward, if she’s back in form, could be huge.
Fresh Faces: Agyemang Among Seven Tournament Rookies
Another headline-making move was the unexpected call-up of 19-year-old striker Michelle Agyemang.
The Arsenal youngster, who spent the season on loan at Brighton, only has one senior England appearance to her name—but what a debut it was.
She scored just 41 seconds after coming off the bench in a 3-2 loss to Belgium last month.
Despite not featuring in the last two Nations League matches, Agyemang’s potential was clearly enough for Wiegman to give her a shot.
Her Brighton teammate, 31-year-old veteran Nikita Parris, didn’t make the final list.
Joining Agyemang in making their tournament debuts are Maya Le Tissier and Grace Clinton (Manchester United), Khiara Keating and Jess Park (Manchester City), Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea), and Anna Moorhouse (Orlando Pride).
It’s a clear sign that Wiegman is investing in the future, not just the present.
Big Names Missing: Earps, Bright, and Kirby Step Away
The squad announcement wasn’t without its setbacks.
Three major players—Mary Earps, Millie Bright, and Fran Kirby—won’t be part of this summer’s campaign.
Goalkeeper Mary Earps shocked fans last week by retiring from international football.
She’d fallen behind Hannah Hampton in the pecking order, and her decision reportedly came as a disappointment to Wiegman.
That leaves Hampton as the only goalkeeper in the squad with senior caps.
Just two days before the squad was unveiled, Fran Kirby also confirmed her retirement after 11 years of service.
Wiegman had informed her she wouldn’t be selected unless injuries changed the situation—and Kirby chose to step away on her own terms.
Millie Bright followed soon after, announcing she wasn’t in the right mental or physical space to give her all.
She explained that it wouldn’t be fair to take a spot from someone who could fully commit to representing the team.
Williamson Returns to Lead the Lionesses Again
Despite the turbulence, there’s one reassuring sight for England fans—Leah Williamson is back and ready to wear the armband.
The Arsenal defender, who missed the 2023 World Cup due to an ACL injury, captained England to victory at Euro 2022 and is seen as a steadying force within the squad.
Her return brings a sense of continuity and leadership that will be crucial heading into the group stage, where England will face France, the Netherlands, and Wales.
Chloe Kelly’s Revival Adds Firepower to the Attack
There’s more good news up front: Chloe Kelly, the match-winner from the Euro 2022 final, has found her stride just in time.
After a slow start to the season with limited minutes at Manchester City, a January loan move to Arsenal helped her rediscover her form—and she topped it off with a Champions League trophy.
Kelly’s resurgence offers another attacking option for Wiegman, especially if Lauren James needs time to reach full fitness.
So, What’s Next for the Lionesses?
England’s title defense begins in Switzerland in exactly one month.
Their first test? A Group D clash with a strong French side.
From there, it’s on to games against the Netherlands and Wales as they push toward the knockout rounds—and, ultimately, the final on July 27.
There’s no doubt Wiegman’s squad has faced challenges leading up to this summer’s tournament.
But with a bold mix of youth and experience, and a few strategic gambles along the way, the Lionesses are still very much in the hunt to defend their crown.