Millie Bright Announces International Retirement
Millie Bright has announced her retirement from international football, saying she is “at peace” with the decision and that her priorities have shifted. The 32-year-old Chelsea centre-back revealed she would not be available for selection for England’s Euro 2025 campaign, explaining that she could not give 100% mentally or physically after a demanding treble-winning domestic season. The announcement comes just as England prepare to face Brazil and Australia in friendlies later this month under manager Sarina Wiegman.
A Close-to-Home Decision, A Clear Mind
Bright made the decision ahead of Wiegman naming her squad for the friendlies, emphasising the importance of making 큰 life choices with a clear mind. Speaking on The Rest is Football: Daly Brightness podcast, which she co-hosts with former England teammate Rachel Daly, Bright said the summer had helped her reassess priorities. “I’ve been weighing this up for a long time. 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.”
Reflecting on a Golden Era
Bright’s England career has been one of the defining narratives of the Lionesses in the modern era. She started every match as England captured the 2022 Women’s Euros on home soil and captained the side to the 2023 World Cup final in Australia, a tournament in which Leah Williamson was sidelined by injury. With 88 caps and six international goals to her name, Bright’s influence extended beyond the back line, embodying leadership and resilience through moments of triumph and challenge.
Tribute from the Manager and a Lasting Legacy
England head coach Sarina Wiegman paid tribute to Bright, praising her as a legend for her impact on and off the pitch. “Millie will forever 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,” Wiegman said. The coach highlighted Bright’s leadership and the respect she commands within the game, noting that her contribution to English football would be remembered long after her playing days.
The Balancing Act: Club Demands vs. International Duty
Bright explained that the decision is rooted in a need to balance club and country. “Physically, I’m at that crossroads – can I be 50% for each, for England and for Chelsea? I want to be all in. To give myself the best chance of doing that and be the best for my club, I probably need to rein it in a little bit.” She stressed that the choice is about protecting long-term well-being and competitiveness, not about stepping away from football altogether. Her aim is to leave England duty with her head held high and a legacy defined by relentless effort and leadership.
What Comes Next for Bright?
Bright described her desire for a legacy built on being a winner who makes a difference. She wants to be remembered as someone who was reliable, who gave everything, and who represented her country with heart and soul. While her England journey concludes, Bright hinted at new chapters ahead, with potential opportunities to influence the game beyond the pitch as she continues her career with Chelsea and could explore roles that leverage her leadership and experience within English football.
Looking Ahead for England
England proceed with preparations for the new season under Wiegman, who has built a squad known for its unity and tactical sophistication. The Lionesses will face Brazil and Australia in the upcoming friendlies, tests that will further shape the team’s development as they pursue continued success on the international stage. Bright’s absence opens a door for younger players to stake their claims and for England to maintain the momentum that has defined recent campaigns.
