Mary Earps Stuns with Unexpected Retirement From England Lionesses

Mary Earps has declared her retirement from international football mere 39 days prior to the commencement of England’s European Women’s Championship effort.

The player, aged 32 and presently with Paris Saint-Germain, holds 53 appearances for the country’s team. and played a crucial role in the Lionesses' victory at Euro 2022 .

During her tenure with England, Earps has also claimed victory in the Women’s Finalissima, the SheBelieves Cup, and the Arnold Clark Cup two times each. While she was also between the posts during England's loss to Spain in the Women's World Cup final in 2023. .

Nevertheless, before the Women’s Euros this summer, Earps appeared likely to serve as the backup goalie for the competition, with England coach Sarina Wiegman favoring Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton instead.

Earps has decided to withdraw from the Lionesses squad, which kicks off their Women’s Euros journey against France on July 5, followed by matches against the Netherlands and Wales in Group D.

“I have made the tough choice to step down from international duties,” Earps stated in an announcement.

'It has been the utmost honor and privilege of my life to wear this emblem, represent my nation, and compete with such an amazing team.'

'I've invested considerable thought into reaching this decision and have approached it with great care. Personally, now feels like the appropriate moment for me to step back and allow fresh talent from the next generation to flourish. Claiming victory at the Euros in 2022 remains the pinnacle of my career, and I am eagerly cheering on the team as they aim to secure another win this year.'

In an independent post on Instagram, Earps stated: “My path hasn’t always been easy, so in typical Mary style, this departure isn’t straightforward—coming just before a significant competition.”

'Nevertheless, I am certain this is the correct choice. This decision encompasses numerous aspects, with specifics that can be addressed later.'

'This marks a fresh chapter with a renewed English squad, and I'm eager to watch them in action this coming summer.'

'I understand that for those of you reading this, what follows may seem unclear; however, please believe me when I say I wouldn’t undertake this action unless I genuinely felt it was the absolute correct choice to make, even though it causes pain.'

'I've poured my heart and soul into this. I gave it my all on the field and strived to contribute to systematic transformation. There’s nothing I’d do differently.'

In response to Earps' choice to step away from international competition, Wiegman commented, 'I was looking forward to having Mary contribute significantly to the team this summer, so naturally, I am let down.'

'Mary has openly stated her rationale for making this choice, and it's something we must come to terms with.'

'Mary has played an enormous role not just for the team, but for all of English football.'

'We will hold dear these memories and undoubtedly honor Mary as she should be honored following the summer, yet our current attention must remain fixed on the forthcoming UEFA Women’s Nations League matches and the Euros.'

The Football Association has stated that a comprehensive tribute to Earps' international career and her 'substantial impact' on English football will take place during a Lionesses match following the summer.

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