While England’s players focused on their final World Cup group-stage preparations, several of their wives and girlfriends enjoyed an evening out in New York before cheering the Three Lions to victory over Panama.
The group spent several hours at an exclusive Manhattan venue, wrapping up their night around 2 a.m. before heading to the stadium later that day to watch England secure a 2-0 win.
Ellie Watkins and Ashlyn Castro Among Familiar Faces
Leading the outing were Ellie Watkins, wife of striker Ollie Watkins, and Ashlyn Castro, the partner of England midfielder Jude Bellingham.
Ellie was joined by her sister, Sophia Alderson, who had arrived in New York earlier that day before the pair headed out together in one of two limousines arranged for the evening.
Meanwhile, Ashlyn documented parts of her preparations on social media, sharing her excitement before leaving for what she described as a girls’ night out.
Fashion Took Centre Stage Before the Party
Ahead of the evening, Ashlyn showcased her outfit online, highlighting a pair of white tasseled Versace jeans that she described as one of her favourite fashion pieces.
She completed the look with a sheer Roberto Cavalli top, telling followers she was “obsessed” with the combination.
Ellie opted for a more casual outfit, pairing denim with a light blue top as the group gathered for what insiders described as an opportunity for the England partners to spend time together away from football.
Nightclub Staff Describe Relaxed Atmosphere
According to staff at Maison Close in Lower Manhattan, around a dozen members of England’s WAG contingent attended the event.
Security accompanied the group throughout the evening after they arrived in two limousines.
Employees said the guests spent the night singing, dancing and enjoying themselves before leaving when the venue closed at 2 a.m.
One staff member recalled that some members of the group asked about other late-night venues after the club shut, although it is not believed they continued elsewhere.
Luxury Venue Offers Celebrity Experience
Maison Close has built a reputation as one of New York’s fashionable nightlife destinations, combining upscale French dining with a lively entertainment atmosphere.
Guests can order premium cocktails priced at around $30, while the menu also includes luxury items such as caviar and high-end steaks that have helped make the venue popular among influencers, celebrities and reality television personalities.
Located close to Tribeca in Lower Manhattan, the restaurant has become a regular destination for visitors seeking an exclusive night out.
WAGs Backed England After Short Night’s Sleep
Despite returning to their accommodation in the early hours of the morning, the group reportedly rose in time for a relaxed breakfast before making their way to MetLife Stadium to support England.
Sources described the evening as a chance for the players’ partners to strengthen friendships during the tournament rather than a lavish celebration.
Other England partners currently in New York include Olivia Stones, wife of defender John Stones, and Tolami Benson, who is in a relationship with Bukayo Saka.
Second Social Gathering of the Tournament
For several members of the group, the outing marked their second visit to a New York nightlife venue during the World Cup.
Earlier in the week, a number of England’s partners visited Somewhere Nowhere, a rooftop nightclub in Manhattan featuring panoramic city views, a swimming pool and entertainment spaces popular with celebrities including Cardi B and Jaden Smith.
A Different Image From England’s Famous 2006 WAGs
Although England’s current WAGs have attracted attention during the tournament, many observers have noted they present a very different public image from the famous group that travelled to the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
That generation, led by Victoria Beckham and including Coleen Rooney, Cheryl Tweedy, Abbey Clancy and Nancy Dell’Olio, became synonymous with extravagant shopping trips, expensive nights out and widespread media coverage.
Their high-profile lifestyle even drew criticism from former England players, with Rio Ferdinand famously describing the circus-like atmosphere surrounding the team.
Knockout Stage Beckons for England
Attention now shifts back to football as England prepare for a last-32 meeting with the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday.
Victory would move Thomas Tuchel’s side into the next round, where a potential showdown with co-hosts Mexico at the historic Azteca Stadium could await.
For England’s players and their families alike, the glamour of New York is now giving way to the pressure of knockout football.
