Fran Kirby Bows Out with Grace After Glorious England Career
Today, I want to talk about a moment that’s stirred up a lot of emotion across the football community—Fran Kirby announcing her retirement from international football. If you’ve followed women’s football over the last decade, then you know this is more than just a retirement. This is the closing chapter of one of the most inspirational journeys in England's football history.
Kirby’s career with the Lionesses spans over 11 years. She earned 77 caps, scored 19 goals, and most memorably, helped England win their first major trophy at the 2022 Euros. But more than the numbers or medals, it’s the resilience, the comebacks, and the pure talent that have defined her legacy.
The decision comes just weeks before Euro 2025, and while some fans were shocked when Mary Earps announced her retirement earlier, Kirby’s timing feels different—more measured. She had been planning to step away after the Euros, but after manager Sarina Wiegman told her she wouldn’t be included in the final squad, she chose to bow out now.
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And honestly, it feels right. Not because she’s no longer good enough—she still has that spark, that “Mini Messi” flair she was nicknamed for after lighting up the 2015 World Cup. But because she has already given so much. After everything she’s been through—pericarditis, multiple surgeries, chronic fatigue, and even personal grief—Kirby kept coming back. She kept showing up, ready to do whatever the team needed.
Wiegman summed it up perfectly when she said, “She’s an amazing player and an incredible person… I’m really proud of her.” And that’s the thing about Kirby—her story is as much about character as it is about skill. Whether she was dazzling with her creativity on the pitch or quietly battling unseen struggles off it, she carried herself with grace.
From her humble beginnings in Reading to becoming a central figure in transforming the women’s game in England, Kirby has never forgotten where she came from. She once quit football after losing her mum at 14. And yet, years later, she was not only representing her country, but changing the game for the next generation of girls dreaming of doing the same.
She left Chelsea after nine incredible years and recently joined Brighton, where she was named Player of the Year. So yes, her club career continues. But this moment—saying goodbye to England—is a milestone. It's a reminder of everything she’s accomplished, and all she’s overcome.
Kirby’s parting message was simple but powerful: “Just remember you can.” And that says everything you need to know about her. Determined, resilient, and endlessly inspiring.
Thank you, Fran Kirby, for giving us everything. You wore the England badge with pride—and we couldn’t be prouder of you.
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