Mary Earps, the celebrated goalkeeper for the Lionesses, is set to receive a heartfelt farewell at Wembley on April 14, 2026, as she retires from international duty just six weeks before Euro 2025. With an expected attendance of 75,000, this tribute marks the end of an era for a player who played a crucial role in England’s triumph at Euro 2022 and their impressive run to the 2023 World Cup final.
Throughout her career, Earps has been a standout performer, but her recent comments in her autobiography, “All In,” have stirred controversy. She openly criticized head coach Sarina Wiegman for reinstating Hannah Hampton to the squad, calling the handling of the goalkeeping selection process “bullshit.” This candidness has led to mixed reactions, with some fans cheering her honesty while others have expressed disapproval.
Despite the turbulence surrounding her departure from the international scene, Wiegman has emphasized the importance of celebrating Earps’ contributions to the team. “She deserves a great farewell. I hope we celebrate her and it will be a nice moment,” Wiegman stated, highlighting the respect Earps commands within the squad and among fans.
Earps’ journey has not been without its challenges. After her autobiography’s release, she faced backlash for her remarks, which she later described as a tough lesson in navigating public perception and “cancel culture.” Reflecting on her experiences, she remarked, “That was kind of my first rodeo with ‘cancel culture’, and 0 out of 10 – would not recommend to other people.” This candid reflection showcases her growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
In addition to her on-field accomplishments, Earps has also made significant contributions off the pitch. She launched “KeepHers,” a program aimed at providing free goalkeeping sessions for young female footballers aged six to 18 in Manchester. This initiative underscores her commitment to leaving the game in a better place, as she stated, “I want to leave the game in a better place than where I found it.” On the Mary Earps Pitch, 33 players attended a recent goalkeeping session, with an additional 20 participating in pick-up games nearby, demonstrating her impact on the next generation of players.
As she prepares for her farewell match, Earps is also navigating her club career, with her contract at Paris Saint-Germain set to expire this summer. This uncertainty adds another layer to her retirement narrative, as fans and analysts alike speculate on her next steps in professional football.
Statistically, Earps has faced challenges this season, conceding 18 goals against an expected goals on target (xGOT) of 13.20. These numbers reflect the pressures she has faced as a goalkeeper at the highest level, yet they do not overshadow her legacy as one of the world’s best. Wiegman aptly noted, “Everyone will have an opinion but let’s cherish the moment we had. Mary had a great career for us. She was the world’s best.”
As the date approaches, the exact nature of the reception Earps will receive at Wembley remains unclear. However, one thing is certain: her impact on women’s football in England is indelible, and her farewell will be a moment to remember for fans and players alike.