This video can not be played 'I'm really happy where we are right now' England manager Sarina Wiegman says "there is no crisis" despite a chaotic 10 days which has seen three high-profile senior players either retire from international football in the build-up to Euro 2025 or withdraw from the tournament. Wiegman named a23-player squadon Thursday for the tournament in Switzerland, which starts on 2 July, where England are defending champions. She will be without goalkeeper Mary Earps and midfielder Fran Kirby, who have both retired from international football, while defender Millie Bright, who captained the side to the World Cup final in 2023, withdrew from selection to focus on her mental and physical wellbeing. The loss of three players, who have won a combined 217 caps, in such a short time has led to a potentiallyunsettling periodfor the Lionesses - and distractions off the pitch dominated discussions at the end of their Women's Nations League campaign this week. "Yeah, of course, [it] has been hard," said Wiegman. "I think there are three different stories and every story is one on its own. "[These are] players who have been with us for a long time, who I have been working with for a long time and so that's hard." But the Dutchwoman says she is happy with the atmosphere inside the England camp. "You [the media] see part of it, you are not in our environment all the time and I can ensure that the training sessions were really good last week," she said. "I didn't see anything [to suggest] that there were no connections within the team. I am really happy [with] where we are right now." Wiegman had to address issues aroundplayer's performance-related bonusesin the build-up to the World Cup and there was also heavy scrutiny on her decision to omit former captain Steph Houghton from the Euro 2022 squad in her first year in charge. "My experiences before is that there is always noise. We expect noise until we go into the tournament," said Wiegman. "The difference is, between 2015 and 2017 to now, is that the attention and visibility of the women's game has increased so much. "It seems like there is more noise but there's just more journalists here. Which is right. It shows what we are doing. We have to deal with it and move on. Which we have." Sarina Wiegman is aiming to win a third successive Euros title as manager Wiegman said she was feeling "good" despite it being a week full of difficult decisions and conversations. Kirby's retirement followed Wiegman's decision not to include her in the Euros squad, while goalkeeper Earps was unhappy at her position as number two. Wiegman said it is "part of the job" to endure those experiences but she can "move forward" to the Euros now. "Yes, those hard conversations are not nice. I know what players do and how hard they work to make the squad. It's hard to give disappointing messages," she added. "At the same time, I also had very nice messages to give so that gives me more energy. "After I have conversations with players, I always think, 'OK, what went well?' For me, it is really important that I am honest, that I treat people in the right way. "Sometimes, you have very good news and, sometimes, you don't have good news - and I don't go around the bush with that. "I just give that message, then I can't always control how people respond to that. I just hope that they have the clarity to move on." Wiegman also said part of the growth of women's football, and the success of the Lionesses, has added increased demands on her players. Bright's withdrawal has been a blow for England as Wiegman said the Chelsea captain would have been selected had she not ruled herself out. Asked when she was made aware of Bright's decision, she said: "In the last couple of days I found out. It was sad and disappointing. "It's not nice when you don't feel well physically and mentally and I just hope she feels better soon. "England's profile is growing. That's life changing and very exciting but at the same time players are not robots. They have to deal with these things too. "That's also why we're trying to support them as well as possible on and off the pitch. Hopefully many players stay fit and healthy." Head here to get involved
'There is no crisis' before Euro 2025 - Wiegman
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Sarina Wiegman Confident Despite Key Player Withdrawals Ahead of Euro 2025"
Bbc News
7.6
TruthLens AI Summary
England women's football team manager Sarina Wiegman has expressed confidence in her squad's readiness for Euro 2025, despite facing significant challenges in recent weeks. The past ten days have seen the high-profile retirements of goalkeeper Mary Earps and midfielder Fran Kirby, alongside defender Millie Bright's withdrawal due to mental and physical health concerns. These departures, involving players with a total of 217 caps, have raised questions about the team's stability leading into the tournament, where England will defend their title starting July 2 in Switzerland. Wiegman acknowledged the difficulties posed by these changes but emphasized the positive atmosphere within the England camp, stating that training sessions were productive and the team remained cohesive. She noted that while the media may perceive chaos, the internal dynamics suggest a different story, with strong connections among the remaining squad members.
Wiegman also reflected on the increased scrutiny that comes with the growing visibility of women's football, indicating that the heightened attention has resulted in what may seem like more 'noise' around the team. She recalled facing similar challenges in her managerial career, recognizing that difficult conversations regarding player selections and performance-related issues are part of the job. Bright's withdrawal was particularly disappointing for Wiegman, who had hoped to include her in the squad. The manager reiterated the importance of supporting players both on and off the pitch, acknowledging that the demands of their growing profile can be overwhelming. Moving forward, Wiegman aims to focus on the positives and foster an environment conducive to the players' well-being as they prepare for the upcoming tournament, highlighting the significance of clear communication and support in navigating these transitions.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article emphasizes the resilience and positivity of England's women's national football team, particularly in light of recent player retirements and withdrawals ahead of Euro 2025. Manager Sarina Wiegman reassures fans and media that there is no crisis within the team, despite significant changes in personnel. This narrative aims to maintain a sense of stability and optimism as the team prepares to defend its championship title.
Perception Management
The article seeks to create a perception of confidence and unity within the England squad, countering any negativity stemming from the recent departures of key players. By highlighting Wiegman's positive outlook and the good atmosphere in the camp, the report aims to bolster public support and fan morale ahead of the tournament.
Potential Omissions
While the article focuses on Wiegman's reassurances, it may downplay the implications of losing experienced players such as Mary Earps, Fran Kirby, and Millie Bright. The impact of their absence on team dynamics and performance is not extensively explored, which could lead to questions about the team's depth and readiness for the upcoming tournament.
Trustworthiness of the Information
The article appears credible as it quotes the team's manager directly and provides context regarding the players' situations. However, it may selectively present information to foster a more favorable public image. This could indicate a potential bias towards maintaining a positive narrative, particularly in the face of adversity.
Broader Connections
Comparing this news with other reports from the sports community, a recurring theme of resilience in the face of challenges is noticeable. Other teams and sports figures may also be facing scrutiny or changes, which could create a collective atmosphere of perseverance in sports journalism.
Impact on Society and Economy
The public perception of the women's national team can influence support for women's sports, which is essential for its growth and funding. Positive media coverage can enhance attendance at matches and increase sponsorship opportunities, thus impacting the economy related to women's sports.
Target Audience
The article appeals primarily to fans of women's football, sports enthusiasts, and those invested in the success of the England team. It likely aims to reassure existing supporters while attracting new fans who may be influenced by the team's strong leadership and positive messaging.
Market Implications
Although this news may not have a direct impact on stock markets or global financial markets, it could affect companies associated with women's sports sponsorships or merchandise. Positive momentum for the England team could lead to increased sales and sponsorship deals.
Geopolitical Relevance
While the article does not directly address geopolitical issues, the success of national teams often has broader cultural implications, fostering national pride and unity. Such sentiments can resonate within the context of international sports competitions.
Artificial Intelligence Influence
It is unlikely that AI has significantly influenced the writing of this article. However, if AI were used, it might have aided in structuring the report or summarizing key points. The direct quotes and personal insights from Wiegman suggest a human touch that AI may not fully replicate.
In conclusion, this article primarily serves to reassure fans about the England women's national team's readiness for Euro 2025, leveraging Wiegman's positive statements to maintain public confidence. However, it does not thoroughly address the potential challenges posed by the absence of key players, which could lead to a more nuanced understanding of the team's current situation.