Millie Bright, who captained England during their run to the final at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™, has announced her retirement from football with immediate effect.
The 32-year-old centre-back made 88 appearances for England, helping her nation lift the UEFA Women’s EURO in 2022. Bright took over the armband from injured defender Leah Williamson at the Women’s World Cup the following year and inspired the Lionesses to reach the final, where they lost to Spain.
“Millie has played such a big role in the growth of the women’s game, with both England and Chelsea, and she has achieved so much along the way. What she has given to her club and country is incredible,” England head coach Sarina Wiegman said.
“Winning EURO 2022 and captaining England to the World Cup final in Australia says so much about her, but it is not just about the trophies with club and country. She has also earned great respect through the way she has committed herself to the game.”
Bright, who retired from international football last October, also had an illustrious club career with Chelsea, which included 20 trophies. After suffering an injury, she struggled for playing time in recent months.
