Who Makes the Cut? Predicting England Euro 2025 Squad for Switzerland

Lionesses Euro 2025 Squad: Who Will Sarina Wiegman Take?

As the countdown to Euro 2025 ticks down, England’s Lionesses are once again preparing for the spotlight. The reigning European champions head to Switzerland this summer with a target on their backs and a title to defend. Sarina Wiegman, the ever-composed Dutch tactician, is set to name her final 23-player squad on Thursday, June 5 — and as always, there’s no shortage of intrigue around who will make the cut.

With big names injured, seasoned pros stepping away, and a new generation emerging fast, Wiegman’s selection headache might be her toughest yet.

Goalkeepers: Life After Mary Earps Begins

Spain v England – UEFA Women’s Nations League 2024/25 Grp A3 MD6

Perhaps the biggest shock in the build-up to this summer’s tournament has been the sudden retirement of Mary Earps. The 32-year-old was not only England’s No.1, but also one of the squad’s emotional leaders. In her absence, it’s Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton who is expected to wear the gloves as the new first-choice keeper.

Behind her, the options are much less clear. Manchester City’s Khiara Keating has impressed domestically but is untested at this level, while Anna Moorhouse, Kayla Rendell and Lucy Thomas are still waiting for a real opportunity to prove themselves internationally.

One potential wildcard could be Ellie Roebuck. Now at Barcelona, the 24-year-old hasn’t featured in a Lionesses squad since November 2023, but her experience and pedigree might tempt Wiegman into a late recall.

Likely Picks:

• Hannah Hampton (Chelsea)
• Khiara Keating (Manchester City)
• Ellie Roebuck (Barcelona) or Anna Moorhouse (Orlando Pride)

Defence: Changes and Challenges at the Back

England v Portugal – UEFA Women’s Nations League 2024/25 Grp A3 MD5

In terms of the backline, England’s defence is going through something of a reshuffle. Leah Williamson, back from injury, is a lock for the centre-back role and will captain the side. Lucy Bronze remains untouchable at right-back, bringing experience and energy in equal measure.

But the real questions lie elsewhere. Millie Bright — such a reliable presence — has ruled herself out, citing mental and physical fatigue. That leaves a space open at centre-back. Manchester City’s Alex Greenwood, with her cultured left foot, looks like the natural replacement. Lotte Wubben-Moy, Jess Carter, Esme Morgan, and Maya Le Tissier also come into contention, with versatility and form working in their favour.

At left-back, it’s even trickier. Niamh Charles started the season strongly and seemed to have nailed down the position, but Jess Carter’s impressive showing against Portugal has thrown a wrench into that assumption. Greenwood and Morgan can both fill in there too, giving Wiegman a tactical dilemma.

Gabby George and Lucy Parker may sneak into the squad if additional cover is needed, though George is still battling her way back to full match fitness.

Likely Picks:

• Lucy Bronze (Chelsea)
• Leah Williamson (Arsenal)
• Alex Greenwood (Manchester City)
• Jess Carter (Gotham FC)
• Niamh Charles (Chelsea)
• Maya Le Tissier (Manchester United)
• Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal)
• Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit)

Midfield: Stanway Returns, But Depth Is a Concern

England v Portugal – UEFA Women’s Nations League 2024/25 Grp A3 MD5

In midfield, Georgia Stanway’s return from injury is a major boost. She brings a level of authority and dynamism that England sorely lacked in her absence. Keira Walsh will once again operate in that pivotal holding role, though the lack of a natural back-up is a cause for concern. Ruby Mace, once considered the heir apparent in that position, has been ruled out with a long-term injury.

Katie Zelem is experienced but has been on the fringes of Wiegman’s plans, while younger players like Maisie Symonds and Laura Blindkilde Brown may simply lack the international seasoning required for a major tournament.

The emergence of Grace Clinton has been a huge positive. The Manchester United midfielder has slotted seamlessly into the No.8 role and looks ready for a starring role. In the more advanced No.10 slot, Ella Toone and Jess Park provide plenty of attacking flair and goal threat.

Then there’s Lauren James. When fit, she’s one of England’s most gifted players, capable of unlocking any defence. But her hamstring injury, sustained in April, casts serious doubt over her participation.

Meanwhile, Fran Kirby — one of the squad’s most technically gifted players — has officially hung up her international boots after being told she wouldn’t be selected.

Likely Picks:

• Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich)
• Keira Walsh (Chelsea)
• Grace Clinton (Manchester United)
• Ella Toone (Manchester United)
• Jess Park (Manchester City)

Outside chances:

• Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City)
• Missy Bo Kearns (Aston Villa)
• Katie Zelem (Manchester United)

Forwards: Depth, Quality, and the James Question

Georgia Stanway England 2025

Up front, England are blessed with attacking riches — even with a few injury clouds hanging overhead. Alessia Russo remains the go-to striker and will likely lead the line once more, while Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly bring pace and invention from wide areas.

Beth Mead is back after a long injury lay-off and has looked sharper with every passing week. Her proven tournament pedigree could be priceless in Switzerland. Rachel Daly’s decision to step back from international football means there’s room for another name in the attacking department.

Jess Park and James (if fit) can both be used in advanced roles, while Wiegman may also be tempted to include Nikita Parris for her experience or Ebony Salmon for her raw pace.

Youngsters like Aggie Beever-Jones and Michelle Agyemang are knocking on the door but are likely to just miss out this time around.

Likely Picks:

• Alessia Russo (Arsenal)
• Lauren Hemp (Manchester City)
• Chloe Kelly (Manchester City)
• Beth Mead (Arsenal)
• Ella Toone (Manchester United)
• Lauren James (Chelsea) – fitness pending
• Nikita Parris (Manchester United)

Final Thoughts: Selection Dilemmas and the Road Ahead

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Sarina Wiegman has built a reputation on consistency and calmness under pressure — traits that will be sorely tested as she finalises her Euro 2025 squad. England are heading into this tournament not just as contenders, but as defending champions, with a target on their backs and expectations sky-high.

Injuries to key players have forced change, and retirement announcements have narrowed her options. But this England squad remains loaded with talent, experience, and youthful promise. Come June 5, we’ll know the full list — and come July, we’ll find out if this reshuffled pack has what it takes to lift another European crown.

One thing’s for sure: the Lionesses won’t be giving up their crown without a fight.