Former England captain Millie Bright has announced her retirement from international football, bringing an end to a distinguished nine-year career with the Lionesses. Bright, 32, confirmed her decision on Monday, saying she knew it was the right moment to “pass the baton on” after taking time to recover from injury and reflect on her journey.
Bright said no one could make such a decision for her, adding that although it might sound cliché, stepping away from international football “really is a feeling.” She explained that taking the summer off had given her time to reflect, clear her mind, and recover from her knee injury, which helped her see things from a new perspective.
She said the break made her think about her health, happiness, and everything she had achieved with England over the years. Looking back, she felt immense pride and gratitude for representing her country and described the experience as one that had shaped her both as a player and as a person. Bright added that wearing the England shirt had been more than football.
Read Also: Sergio Busquets Set To Confirm Retirement By November
Bright made her England debut in 2016 and went on to earn 88 caps, scoring six goals. She was part of the squad that won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 and captained the national team at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where England finished runners-up after a narrow loss to Spain. The defender, an important part of Chelsea’s back line, also represented England at two World Cups and played a key role in the team’s rise under manager Sarina Wiegman.
Bright said she wanted to prioritise her health and well-being after ongoing knee problems kept her out of recent matches. She withdrew from contention for this year’s European Championship squad, admitting she was unable to give “100% mentally or physically.”
”It’s a decision for myself,” she said. “You know when it’s time to pass the baton on.”
England went on to retain their European title in her absence, marking a fitting continuation of the success Bright helped to build. While she will no longer represent England, Bright will continue her club career with Chelsea, where she has already won multiple FA Women’s Super League titles and domestic cups.
