Fran Kirby retires from England days before Euro 2025 squad call

England midfielder Fran Kirby has announced her retirement from international football just days before the Euro 2025 squad announcement. A key player for the Lionesses, Kirby has been a part of several major tournaments and played a vital role in England’s recent successes. Her decision to step away from the national team marks the end of an era and comes as a surprise to fans and teammates ahead of the upcoming European Championship.

Fran Kirby has revealed her decision to step away from international football, just two days before England's Euro 2025 squad is due to be named.

The 31-year-old, currently playing for Brighton, was left out of the matchday lineup for England’s recent 2-1 defeat to Spain. Following the game, she informed her teammates of her immediate retirement. Manager Sarina Wiegman told Kirby she was unlikely to be included in the Euro 2025 squad unless an injury opened up a spot, which Kirby said made her feel it was time to move on from the international stage.

Kirby’s international career concludes with 77 appearances and 19 goals. She featured in four major tournaments, including every game of England’s triumphant Euro 2022 campaign. Her departure follows closely on the heels of Mary Earps’ unexpected retirement, marking a second emotional exit from the Lionesses within a week.

Speaking to ESPN, Kirby shared that Wiegman had outlined her plans for the Euros and said Kirby would only be called up if someone was injured. That was the moment Kirby realized it was time to step aside. She expressed that she didn’t want to occupy a spot that could help another player grow and didn’t want to linger on a slim chance, which she believed would take a toll on her mentally.

Kirby emphasized she felt no shame, stating she gave everything this year and throughout her career, and accepts the manager’s decision knowing she did her best. In a heartfelt social media post, Kirby reflected on how playing for England was the greatest honour of her life — a childhood dream come true. She acknowledged the highs and lows of her journey and said she always gave her all when wearing the England badge.

She also paid tribute to her late mother, who dreamed of seeing her represent the country. Kirby described winning the Euro 2022 title and being part of the growth of women’s football as unforgettable experiences. She ended her message with encouragement for young girls facing obstacles, reminding them that success is possible despite setbacks.

Commentators noted the emotional weight of her retirement, especially so soon after Earps’ departure. While Kirby had made her decision earlier, she chose to share it with the team after the Spain game. She has been praised for her determination, especially in overcoming serious health challenges like pericarditis, which once sidelined her for an extended period.

Wiegman acknowledged Kirby’s difficult injury history but praised her resilience and footballing intelligence, calling her a true inspiration and highlighting her significant contribution to the team. Plans are in place to honour Kirby’s international legacy at a Lionesses game after the summer. Teammate Lucy Bronze paid tribute to her, recalling the nickname “mini-Messi” given to Kirby for her brilliant technical skills and creativity. Bronze praised Kirby's talent and courage, saying it had been a privilege for players to share the pitch with her.

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Source: skysports‍