Chelsea captain Millie Bright withdraws ahead of Euro 2025 squad selection
Millie Bright, a central figure in the Lionesses' defence, has officially withdrawn from the national team ahead of the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 tournament.
Coming off of a successful club campaign where she captained Chelsea to a domestic treble, the 31-year-old defender cited physical and mental exhaustion as the primary reasons for her decision, emphasising her current inability to perform at the highest level required for international competition.
"This is one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make," Bright wrote on Instagram.
"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 team-mates, stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future in the game and most importantly the team."
A significant blow to the team
Her departure marks the third significant loss for England in recent weeks, following the retirements of goalkeeper Mary Earps and midfielder Fran Kirby, both of whom have bid farewell to international football.
Bright's absence leaves a notable gap in England's defence, especially given her leadership role and experience, including captaining the team to the 2023 World Cup final.
England's head coach, Sarina Wiegman, is expected to announce the final squad for Euro 2025 on Thursday, June 5. The Lionesses will commence their title defence on July 5 against France in Switzerland.
