Sarina Wiegman Reflects on Millie Bright’s Retirement Ahead of England’s World Cup Preparations
England’s manager, Sarina Wiegman, expressed her desire to keep Millie Bright in the national team setup for the next World Cup cycle, just before the Chelsea captain made the unexpected announcement of her retirement from international football. Bright, who played a pivotal role in leading England to the finals of last year’s World Cup, decided to end her international career on Monday after earning 88 caps and becoming one of the team’s most influential players.
In a recent press conference where Wiegman unveiled her latest squad, she shared her hopes of having Bright continue with the team as they gear up for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. However, she also acknowledged and respected the defender’s decision to step back.
"Of course, I wanted Millie to stay on the team," Wiegman stated. "She’s an exceptional player, and I value her presence in the squad. But I completely respect her decision; she has put a lot of thought into it. When a player has such an impressive international career and makes a choice like this, it’s not appropriate to try to change her mind."
Wiegman praised Bright’s leadership qualities and her significant impact on the squad, calling her one of the cornerstones of England’s recent success. "After the Euros, we discussed her future, and she expressed her intention to retire. Millie has been a tremendous asset for us, both on and off the pitch," Wiegman added. "I’m grateful to have been a small part of her journey; her influence has been massive."
Bright’s retirement creates a considerable gap in Wiegman’s squad, which is already dealing with several injuries. Captain Leah Williamson is currently sidelined with a knee issue, while Chelsea’s Lauren James is also unavailable due to an ankle injury sustained during Euro 2025. Manchester City forward Lauren Hemp is another notable absentee after suffering an ankle injury last month.
On a positive note, Lucy Bronze has been recalled to the squad after recovering from a fractured tibia that she played through during Euro 2025. The 33-year-old made her season debut as a late substitute in Chelsea’s recent 1-0 victory over Tottenham.
Wiegman’s latest squad features a mix of new talent and returning players as she prepares for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Australia later this month. Notably, Arsenal’s 19-year-old centre-back Katie Reid has received her first senior call-up following impressive performances in the Women’s Super League. Additionally, her teammate Taylor Hinds, who joined Arsenal from Liverpool in the summer, is also included in the squad. Hinds previously represented England at youth level and briefly aligned with Jamaica, making her eligible for the Lionesses.
Aston Villa midfielder Lucia Kendall, 21, is also making her first senior call-up after a successful summer move from Southampton. Chelsea’s Niamh Charles returns from an ankle injury, while Manchester City’s Grace Clinton is included despite missing her club’s recent match against Liverpool due to a knock.
England will face Brazil at the Etihad Stadium on October 25, followed by a match against Australia at Pride Park three days later. These matches are part of Wiegman’s comprehensive preparations to build on England’s Euro 2025 success and to shape a new generation of players in the absence of one of her most trusted leaders, Millie Bright.
Stay tuned for more updates on the England women’s football team as they embark on this new chapter.
