As the countdown to the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 continues, England’s Lionesses head to Switzerland not just as contenders, but as defending champions. Three years after their historic win at Wembley, a victory that transformed the profile of women’s football in the UK, Sarina Wiegman’s side faces the immense challenge of retaining their title with a significantly reshaped squad.
Only 13 players from the victorious 2022 squad have made the cut this time, as Wiegman ushers in a new era for English women’s football. “It’s an exciting time,” she said during the squad announcement. But there’s no denying that the team will arrive with a target on their back, and a few major names missing from the lineup.
The most glaring absence is that of Mary Earps, goalkeeper and Euro 2022 Golden Glove winner, who announced her retirement from international football earlier this year. Joining her on the sidelines are midfielder Fran Kirby, a key architect of England’s attacking play, and vice-captain Millie Bright, who stepped away citing mental and physical fatigue. With just one senior goalkeeper in Hannah Hampton and only five midfielders selected, Wiegman’s squad is leaner and more experimental.
Yet it’s not without promise. Rising stars Michelle Agyemang, who scored on her debut, and Grace Clinton, who enjoyed a breakout domestic season, bring fresh energy and unpredictability to the team. The inclusion of Jess Park, Maya Le Tissier, and Aggie Beever-Jones also signals a bold generational shift, and shows Wiegman’s readiness to place her faith in youth.
…Wiegman’s squad is leaner and more experimental. Yet it’s not without promise.
England’s draw, however, is far from forgiving. Placed in Group D, the Lionesses will face tournament heavyweights France, Wiegman’s former team the Netherlands, and a spirited Wales side making their major tournament debut. There will be no room for error. The opener against France on July 5 in Zurich sets the tone for a campaign that will test England’s depth, discipline, and adaptability from the very beginning. With three highly competitive teams, Group D has quickly earned the tag of the “Group of Death,” and Wiegman herself has admitted, “There are no easy games anymore.”
Despite the squad shake-up, England’s tactical identity under Wiegman remains well-defined: a possession-oriented, fluid system built around high pressing, versatility, and quick transitions. However, the lack of tournament experience among some new players could raise concerns about their ability to deliver under the pressure of knockout football. Wiegman is expected to rotate the lineup in early fixtures to manage workload and foster cohesion. Leadership from experienced figures like Leah Williamson, Georgia Stanway, and Lauren Hemp will be crucial in guiding younger teammates through the intense atmosphere of the Euros.
While the Lionesses remain strong contenders, their path to the final is anything but straightforward. The absence of key veterans will be felt, but England’s strength in depth — combined with Wiegman’s tactical acumen — gives them a fighting chance. This is not the same team that lifted the trophy at Wembley, but that may not be a bad thing. It’s a younger, hungrier side with something to prove. As pride, pressure, and expectation collide in Switzerland, England’s title defence promises to be one of EURO 2025’s most compelling storylines.
