Millie Bright Out: England Euro 2025 Squad Blow
Millie Bright is out! england suffers a major blow as star defender Millie Bright withdraws from the upcoming Euro 2025, citing mental and physical burnout after a grueling season with Chelsea. This news follows the retirements of Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, leaving a critically important gap in the Lionesses’ squad. Bright, who played 36 matches for Chelsea in their treble-winning season, announced her challenging decision on Instagram, emphasizing her need to prioritize her health and the team. The Euros, scheduled from July 2-27 in Switzerland, will now see england adapt its strategy without their captain. Faye White calls Bright’s decision brave,and News Directory 3 will continue to cover the impact and implications of this critical loss for the Lionesses.Discover what’s next for England’s Euro 2025 campaign and how they will overcome this challenge.
Millie Bright Withdraws From Euros Due to Burnout
England defender Millie Bright will not participate in this summer’s European Championship, stating she cannot give her full commitment “mentally or physically.” The Chelsea captain’s decision follows a demanding season and a recent withdrawal from the nations League squad,where she cited burnout.
Bright, 31, played in 36 matches across all competitions as Chelsea secured the Women’s Super League, FA Cup, and League Cup treble. Her absence adds to a list of high-profile England players missing the Euros, including Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, who retired recently. The Euros are scheduled to take place in switzerland from July 2-27.
Bright addressed her decision on Instagram, calling it “one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make.”
“Football has given me so much,and representing my country has always been my greatest honour… Right now I’m not able to give 100% mentally or physically,” Bright wrote.
she added that stepping back is “the right thing for my health, my future in the game and moast importantly the team,” emphasizing that it would be unfair to take a roster spot from a player ready to give their all.
Teammates offered support online. Arsenal forward Chloe Kelly wrote, “Proud of you always,” and Aston Villa’s Rachel Daly posted, “Couldn’t be more proud. wiht you through everything my girl.” The official Lionesses account also shared a message: “We’re all with you, Millie.”
Manager Sarina Wiegman previously commented on Bright’s Nations League withdrawal, saying, “She has to take care of herself. we will stay in contact and I hope she feels better soon.”
Bright has earned 88 caps for England and captained the team in the 2023 World Cup final against Spain. She also played a key role in England’s 2022 Euros victory.
Former England captain Faye white told BBC Radio 5 Live that Bright’s decision was brave. “It’s not ideal, you want the strongest and best squad available, but if Millie feels she’s not in that place then that’s her call. The team and Sarina have to move on,” white said.
What’s next
England will now prepare for the Euros without a key defender as Bright focuses on recovery and her future in the sport. The team will need to adjust their strategy and rely on other players to fill the void left by her absence.