Fran Kirby, the celebrated Brighton midfield dynamo, has called time on her international career. This decision puts a full stop to that celebrated chapter in her sporting journey. After a frank discussion with Sarina Wiegman, manager of the England Women’s team, the 31-year-old made her announcement. That debate was instrumental in determining her decision. In the course of that conversation, Wiegman informed Kirby that she most likely wouldn’t be going to Euro 2025. There was potential if a player on the team were to get hurt and create an opening.
Kirby debuted for England in 2014 and went on to earn 77 caps while scoring 19 goals for her national team. During her illustrious career she was a proud England international, playing in four major tournaments. Evidently, she was on the pitch for every single match of their emphatically successful Euro 2022 run. Her brilliant efforts in leading her squad have made her the face of fierce competitors, and one of the great faces of women’s football.
A Conversation That Changed Everything
Earlier in the week, United States women’s national team general manager Katey Kramer had a critical discussion with Wiegman about her long-term plans with the national team. The manager agreed with Kirby’s outlook going into the first tournaments. That kind of candid assessment caused the midfielder to have to seriously consider her place on the roster.
“When I had the conversation with Sarina and she laid her plans out for the Euros and she told me I wasn’t going unless someone got injured, I knew it was the moment where I’d outstayed my welcome.” – Fran Kirby
Kirby has only been able to make five starts since last December ’22. She acknowledged that her contribution to the side has evolved as England progressed further into the competitions. Despite this reality, she felt no shame about her plight.
“I’m not embarrassed by this at all. I gave absolutely everything at the beginning of the year, I’ve given everything my whole career and I’m okay with Sarina’s decision because at the end of the day – it just wasn’t enough. I’m okay with that as I know I gave absolutely everything.” – Fran Kirby
Kirby’s acceptance of the situation speaks volumes to her professionalism and her commitment to the sport.
A Legacy of Excellence
There’s no doubt that throughout her international career, Kirby has been known for her technical abilities and creativity on the ball. Commonly known as “mini-Messi,” she has left audiences wanting more with her dazzling talents on the field. Lucy Bronze, another player on the England team, referred to Chelsea’s Kirby and her unique role in being a rider from the beginning.
“I made a little speech about her being called ‘mini-Messi’ 10 years ago and rightly so because she lit up the pitch in an England shirt.” – Lucy Bronze
While Kirby’s journey has undeniably been one of success, it certainly hasn’t been free from challenges. She has dealt with many disappointments in her career while continuing to be unbreakable and never losing sight of her aspirations. Reflecting on her time representing England, she stated:
“My journey has been full of ups and downs, setbacks and achievements. Enough has been said and written about those, but regardless of whatever was thrown at me, I want you all to know that every time I put on that England badge I gave 100 per cent.” – Fran Kirby
Kirby’s dedication to her national team serves as a reflection of her character and love for the game.
Celebrating a Remarkable Career
With Kirby moving on from international football, tributes are already being developed to celebrate her services to the England Women’s team. The FA confirmed that Kirby will be honored with tributes during an upcoming Lionesses fixture. We look forward to seeing both sides meet on the field this fall!
In an emotional tribute to her journey, Kirby articulated her joy at having realized her mother’s dream of bearing her country’s colors.
“My mum had a dream of me representing my country and I’m so proud I was able to do that and play in front of you all. I will never, ever forget the noise when my name is read out at a stadium.” – Fran Kirby
Her play in every match of the championship-winning Euro 2022 run was one of the chapters of her career. She called the state of six million souls, a “dream come true.” She reiterated that her first-hand experience of being at the heart of the transformation in women’s football had been incredible. She’ll get to hold it forever.
“Starting in every game and winning the Euros in 2022 was a dream come true, to be a part of change in women’s football was one of the best experiences I could have ever imagined.” – Fran Kirby
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