Millie Bright withdraws from England’s Euro 2025 squad for her health

The England vice-captain Millie Bright has withdrawn from this summer’s Euros in Switzerland, saying it “is the right thing for my health and my future”. The decision is a major setback for Sarina Wiegman before the defence of the title the Lionesses won three years ago.

“This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make but after careful thought and discussions with my team, I have decided to withdraw from selection for the England squad ahead of Euro 2025,” Bright said in an Instagram post. “Football has given me so much and representing my country has always been my greatest honour. My pride and ego tells me to go but I think the team and the fans deserve more. Right now I’m not able to give 100% mentally or physically.

“As much as I want to be out there running through brick walls for England and fighting alongside my teammates, stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future, the game and most importantly the team. It wouldn’t be fair for me to take the place and opportunity away from another player who is ready to give everything for the badge and country.”

The 31-year-old withdrew from England’s recent Nations League fixtures against Portugal and Spain to allow herself extra time to recover after the domestic season, telling the Daly Brightness podcast she had needed to look after her mental health as well as needing to let her body rest. Bright captained Chelsea to a domestic treble this term.

On Wednesday she added: “I’ll be supporting the team with everything I’ve got, and hoping this incredible group of players will do the nation proud. Thank you to my teammates, coaches and, most importantly, the fans for your unwavering support, it means the world to me.”

Bright has won 88 caps, scoring six goals, and and captained the Lionesses at the 2023 World Cup when Leah Williamson was injured.

The centre-back’s decision to step away from England duty this summer follows Fran Kirby announcing her international retirement on Tuesday after she learned she would not be going to the Euros, and the goalkeeper Mary Earps’s shock decision to call time on her England career. All three players started every game of the Lionesses’ run to glory at the 2022 Euros.

The defending champions will begin their Euros campaign against France on 5 July. Sarina Wiegman has said she is “positive” regarding Lauren James’s chances of being fit to play at tournament, as she prepares to name her squad on Thursday.