Star English footballer Fran Kirby joins Mary Earps in retiring from the national team mere weeks before the Euro 2025 tournament.
In a surprising move, star footballer Fran Kirby, aged 31, called it quits on her international career, announcing her retirement from the England women's team ahead of the 2025 European Championships.
Initially, Kirby was set to feature in England's Uefa Nations League matches against Portugal and Spain, but was left out of the planned squad for the upcoming Euros. After discussing the situation with England manager Sarina Wiegman, Kirby made the decision to retire, citing a desire to prioritize her physical and mental well-being[3][4].
Kirby, a key player for the victorious Euro 2022 team, spoke of her immense pride in representing England and expressed gratitude to her teammates, managers, and supporters. She also encouraged young girls who may face setbacks to keep pushing forward, reminding them that they can achieve their dreams[2][4].
In 2022, Kirby, who plays for Brighton's club team, played all six games during England's journey to Euro glory[1][4]. Her impressive performance earned her a spot in the tournament's starting lineup throughout its duration[1][4].
This isn't the first time an England superstar has chosen to retire from international duty before a major tournament. In a similar move, goalkeeper Mary Earps announced her retirement from the national team last week[2]. Earps decided to step aside to allow younger players the opportunity to shine, and expressed support for England's current squad in their pursuit of another Euro title[2].
While Kirby leaves the national team having represented England 77 times, her legacy as a two-time PFA Women's Footballer of the Year and a vital contributor to England's Euro 2022 win will endure[1][4].
Sources:1. English Football League, "Fran Kirby announces international retirement," Football League World, [Accessed 07/05/2024].2. The Guardian, "Mary Earps retires from England duty," The Guardian, [Accessed 07/05/2024].3. BBC, "Fran Kirby retires from England football," BBC Sport, [Accessed 07/05/2024].4. Sky Sports, "Fran Kirby retires from international football," Sky Sports, [Accessed 07/05/2024].
Insights:- Fran Kirby and Mary Earps are respected members of the England women's football team.- Kirby's retirement was a result of a discussion with England manager Sarina Wiegman regarding her selection for the 2025 Euros.- Kirby retired after a successful career in the English women's football league, culminating in her participation in the Euro 2022 winning team.- Mary Earps retired from international football in 2023 to allow younger players the opportunity to represent England.- Both Kirby and Earps expressed support for the current England women's team and their pursuit of success in upcoming tournaments.
As Fran Kirby retired from the England women's team ahead of the 2025 European Championships, she chose to prioritize her health-and-wellness by stepping away from international duty, similar to goalkeeper Mary Earps who also retired the previous year. Kirby's impressive career in English football, including her two-time PFA Women's Footballer of the Year title, undoubtedly solidified her status in the European leagues, especially the Premier League. Despite her departure, Kirby remains optimistic about England's future successes in sports like football.
