What should’ve been a celebration for England’s women’s football team turned into a stunned press conference.
Instead of discussing Leah Williamson’s historic Champions League win or England’s build-up to the Euros, the spotlight was stolen by the shocking news that Mary Earps is retiring from international duty—just five weeks before the tournament begins.
The timing couldn’t be worse, and the mood around the camp? Somber.
Wiegman Left Gutted by Earps’ Exit
Sarina Wiegman didn’t hide her emotions when she sat down to face the press.
Usually composed and business-like, the England manager looked visibly upset as she shared her thoughts on Earps stepping away from the squad.
“I’m really disappointed and sad that she’s not part of the team,” Wiegman said.
“I want her in my team. That must have been a really hard decision for her—and for us too.”
She made it clear that while she’s had conversations with Earps, those talks will remain private.
But the weight of her words—and the expression on her face—said plenty.
No Clear Sign If Selection Battle Played a Role
Earps, who left Manchester United for PSG last year, had long been Wiegman’s go-to in goal.
But over the last year, that dynamic began to shift.
Wiegman started rotating Earps with Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton, and just last month hinted that Hampton had edged ahead in the competition for the No.1 shirt.
Still, Wiegman stopped short of linking that decision directly to Earps’ retirement.
She stressed again that any detailed discussions between them would remain confidential.
When asked whether she felt frustrated by the timing, Wiegman admitted it was emotional but emphasized that her primary feeling was disappointment, not anger.
“It’s emotional because we’ve shared a massive journey together,” she said.
“Lots of highs, some lows too—and that makes this really hard.”
Who Steps Up Now? Pressure on Young Goalkeepers
With Earps out, the goalkeeper situation becomes one of Wiegman’s biggest concerns heading into the Euros.
Hampton is now officially the No.1, and the only capped goalkeeper in the squad.
That means Manchester City’s Khiara Keating and Orlando Pride’s Anna Moorhouse are suddenly next in line to get minutes in the final three pre-Euro fixtures.
Are they ready? Wiegman believes so.
“They’re playing high-level games at club level. That’s experience, too,” she explained.
“The domestic and international games move fast these days, with big crowds and pressure—it all adds up.”
Williamson Devastated by Friend’s Departure
England captain Leah Williamson didn’t hold back either.
She’s not just Earps’ teammate—she considers her a close friend. The announcement clearly hit her hard.
“I’m devastated,” she admitted. “Playing for her country meant everything to Mary.
She always gave her all. But if she’s made this decision, I respect her completely.”
She added, “Mary makes us better. She’s a leader, she’s experienced, and losing her leaves a real gap.
But we’ve been here before. Others will need to step up and prove themselves.”
A Growing List of Absences
Unfortunately for Wiegman, Earps isn’t the only name missing from the roster.
Millie Bright—who captained the team during Williamson’s absence at the World Cup—is also unavailable.
The defender said she’s reached her limit, both mentally and physically, and has pulled out of the current England camp.
“She has to take care of herself,” Wiegman said.
“We’re talking and staying in contact, but for now, she needs to rest.”
Injuries have added to the headache: Ella Toone and Alessia Russo are both ruled out of the upcoming Nations League game against Portugal due to calf issues, although Wiegman insists those are “not long-term.”
A Sliver of Hope: Lauren James on the Mend
There is some good news, at least. Wiegman confirmed that Lauren James is making solid progress in her rehab and there’s still hope she could be fit in time for the Euros.
“She’s doing well,” Wiegman said, offering the first glimmer of positivity in what’s been a rocky few days.
What Comes Next?
With only a few matches left before the tournament kicks off in Switzerland, Wiegman’s squad will be tested both emotionally and tactically.
The England manager has made it clear: the team must regroup fast.
“We have a game tomorrow,” she said. “We’re going to the Euros.
After that, we can think about everything else.”
The Lionesses have shown resilience before. But losing a player of Mary Earps’ stature, right before a major tournament, will take more than just tactical adjustments—it will require real emotional strength.