End of the Bright Era: Millie Bright announces retirement from international football

Bright announced her retirement on her podcast ‘Daly Brightness’, which she co-hosts with former England teammate Rachel Daly.

Bright earned 88 caps in the nine years she represented England, became a European Champion in 2022 in the home tournament, and captained the team to the World Cup final in 2023.

She missed out on retaining the European title this summer in Switzerland as she withdrew herself from selection stating she was “not able to give 100% mentally or physically”, it was later revealed she had undergone minor knee surgery to fix an ongoing issue.

In her podcast she says, “But yeah, it’s time. It’s the right time for me to call it a day with England. Physically, I’m at that crossroads – can I be 50% for each, for England and for Chelsea? I want to be all in.”

Bright has played in four major tournaments for England over the nine years of her career after debuting in 2016. She was key to the Lionesses Euro success in 2022; she started every match and helped the team to keep four clean sheets.

Wiegman’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Australia is announced tomorrow, and Bright will be honoured for her career at an upcoming home match.

Sarina says “Millie will forever be an England legend.”

“She has made such a big contribution to English football both on and off the pitch, and we all have a lot to thank her for.”