Millie Bright Withdraws from Euro 2025: A Hard-Hitting Call for Player Care

What Happened?

England defender and vice‑captain Millie Bright has pulled out of contention for England’s Euro 2025 squad, citing both physical and mental exhaustion. The 31-year-old Chelsea stalwart announced her decision on Instagram just before squad selections, noting she “can’t give 100% mentally or physically”.

The Toll of a Grueling Season

Following a packed season where she captained Chelsea to a domestic treble, including an unbeaten run in a 22-game WSL campaign, Bright admitted she reached her limit. She had previously opted out of England’s Nations League fixtures against Portugal and Spain earlier in May for the same reasons.

Mental Health & Burnout in Focus

Bright’s openness has sparked praise and sparked the broader discussion around burnout in elite women’s football, especially amid congested schedules. Commentary points to a need for better care and recovery practices at both club and national levels:

“Football has given me so much… stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future in the game and most importantly the team”

The Guardian emphasises this as “a wake-up call” on player welfare in the game.

What England (and Wiegman) Face

Bright’s withdrawal follows the recent international exits of Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, stripping England of over 200 caps. Head coach Sarina Wiegman maintains confidence in the current squad, but replacing Bright’s leadership and experience presents a tactical and emotional challenge. England opens the tournament on July 5 against France in Switzerland.

A Turning Point for the Women’s Game

Millie Bright’s decision is more than a personal choice, it’s a turning point. It draws attention to the urgent need for holistic player care in the women’s game. As England readies itself for Euro 2025, clubs and federations must act to safeguard player health, because the long-term success of women’s football depends on it.

Sources

https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/england-defender-millie-bright-withdraws-euro-squad-consideration-2025-06-04/

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/jun/04/bright-has-made-a-brave-decision-but-are-england-doing-enough-to-support-their-stars

https://talksport.com/football/3264831/sarina-wiegman-lionesses-squad-euro-2025/

https://news.sky.com/story/lionesses-star-millie-bright-becomes-latest-big-name-to-rule-herself-out-of-england-squad-for-euro-2025-13379041