Millie Bright has announced her retirement from international football ahead of England’s upcoming squad announcement for October friendlies.
The Chelsea captain has said she is “at peace” with her decision to retire from international football after making 88 appearances for the Lionesses. Announced on the Daly Brightness podcast alongside co-host and former England international Rachel Daly, Bright said the decision followed “the hardest moment of my life” after stepping back from selection ahead of Euro 2025.
“I’ve been weighing this up for a long time,” Bright said. “It’s one of those decisions no one can make for you. It’s a feeling and I’m at peace with it. Having the summer to reflect, fix my knee, and get my head straight really put things into perspective. As you get older, your priorities change. I’ve been craving family time, time with friends, and time for myself.”
After making herself unavailable for selection at Euro 2025, Bright expressed that there “wasn’t one part of me that thought I’d made the wrong decision” as she watched the Lionesses claim back-to-back Euros glory.
Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman said that “Millie will for ever be an England legend for what she has given to her country, and I could never have enough words to praise her impact during my time. Whether she had the armband or not, she is a true leader.
“I know how much respect there is for Millie within the game, not just because she has won so many trophies but because of the way she conducts herself. 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. Even though her playing time with the Lionesses may be over, I know she has so much more to give the game.”
Wiegman will announce her squad for upcoming October friendlies against Australia and Brazil this Tuesday October 14.
