The excitement is building as Sarina Wiegman unveils her final 23-player squad for the upcoming UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland. In a move that has fans and pundits buzzing, Chelsea’s dynamic winger Lauren James has been included despite recent injury concerns, highlighting Wiegman’s faith in her recovery and impact on the pitch.
This squad announcement isn’t just about familiar names; it’s a blend of experienced veterans and exciting new talent, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling tournament. The inclusion of young stars and the strategic choices in midfield reveal a manager not afraid to make bold decisions. Let’s dive into the details of this compelling squad selection.
Lauren James’ Fitness: A Calculated Gamble Pays Off
The biggest question mark hanging over this squad announcement was the fitness of Lauren James. The Chelsea forward has been sidelined since April with a hamstring injury, casting doubt on her availability for the summer’s premier competition. However, Wiegman has consistently expressed optimism throughout the recent Nations League campaign, and her positive outlook has been vindicated.
Wiegman addressed the media, firmly dismissing any notion of a risk: “It’s not a risk. We have some time, we still have a month. She’s training really well at her club. She’s at the point we hope she would be at this stage. She keeps progressing and hopefully when we go into camp, she can go into training with us and keep progressing into the first game on July 5.”
This confidence suggests that James’ rehabilitation is on track, and her undeniable quality makes her an indispensable asset for England’s attacking ambitions.
The Rise of a New Star: Michelle Agyemang’s Meteoric Ascent
In perhaps the most inspiring story of this selection, 19-year-old Arsenal forward Michelle Agyemang has earned her place in the squad. Her journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. After making her international debut just in April, Agyemang announced herself on the world stage with a sensational goal in a 3-2 Nations League defeat to Belgium.
Wiegman was effusive in her praise for the teenager, who honed her skills on loan at Brighton this past season: “I think she brings something different. We’re really strong up front, we have different qualities with the players we’ve picked. She brings so much physicality and we all remember her first goal for us against Belgium. That’s good to have in the team!”
Agyemang’s inclusion symbolizes a bright future for English football and provides a different tactical option for Wiegman in the forward line.
Experienced Absences and New Beginnings
The road to Switzerland has seen some significant departures from the international scene. Goalkeeper Mary Earps and creative midfielder Fran Kirby both announced their international retirements ahead of the tournament, while defensive stalwart Millie Bright made the difficult decision to withdraw from contention to focus on her health and mental wellbeing.
Chelsea later confirmed that Bright had undergone minor knee surgery and would begin a period of rehabilitation. Speaking on her podcast, Bright addressed her decision, highlighting the increasing importance athletes place on their holistic wellbeing.
These absences have created opportunities for others. Aston Villa midfielder Missy Bo Kearns, who made her senior debut against Spain, doesn’t make the final cut but is named on the standby list alongside Sophie Baggaley (Brighton), Laura Blindkilde Brown (Man City), and Lucy Parker (Aston Villa).
Analyzing Wiegman’s Squad Selection Strategy
The Goalkeeping Department
With the retirement of Mary Earps, a new era begins between the posts. Hannah Hampton (Chelsea) and Khiara Keating (Man City) are joined by US-based Anna Moorhouse (Orlando Pride), creating a competitive environment for the number one jersey.
Defensive Stability
The backline boasts a mix of experience and youth. Lucy Bronze prepares for her seventh consecutive major tournament, while Leah Williamson returns to lead the defense after her injury recovery. They’re complemented by the talents of Jess Carter, Alex Greenwood, and emerging stars like Maya Le Tissier and Lotte Wubben-Moy.
The Midfield Conundrum
Wiegman’s most debated selection choice revolves around the midfield. With only five recognized midfielders selected, questions arise about depth and flexibility.
As Crickex football analyst Mark Thompson notes: “Taking just five midfielders is a bold statement from Wiegman. It suggests either tremendous confidence in their fitness or a plan to utilize players like Lauren James in more central roles when needed. The quality is undeniable, but the risk is palpable.”
The midfield cohort includes:
- Keira Walsh (Chelsea) – The anchor
- Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich) – Recently returned from knee surgery
- Ella Toone (Man Utd) – The creative force
- Grace Clinton (Man Utd) – The rising star
- Jess Park (Man Utd) – Versatile and dynamic
Attacking Firepower
The forward line represents England’s greatest strength. Alongside James and Agyemang, Wiegman can call upon the talents of Aggie Beever-Jones, Lauren Hemp, Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead, and Alessia Russo. This depth provides multiple tactical approaches and game-changing options from the bench.
Tournament Preparation and Key Dates
The Lionesses will assemble at St George’s Park on Monday, June 16, to begin their final preparations. The standby players will remain with the squad until departure for Switzerland on Monday, June 30.
A crucial friendly against Jamaica at the King Power Stadium on June 29 will serve as the final tune-up before the tournament proper. The US-based contingent of Anna Moorhouse, Jess Carter, and Esme Morgan will join the camp on June 23 after concluding their NWSL commitments.
The Euro 2025 group stage presents challenging fixtures:
- July 5: France (8pm BST)
- July 9: Netherlands (5pm BST)
- July 13: Wales (8pm BST)
Crickex Final Analysis: Bold Choices Define England’s Euro Campaign
Lauren James Makes England’s Euro 2025 Squad: Wiegman’s Bold Selections Revealed represents both a commitment to proven talent and a willingness to embrace the future. The inclusion of James despite fitness concerns and Agyemang based on immense potential shows Wiegman’s nuanced approach to squad building.
The minimal midfield selection remains the talking point, but as Wiegman herself noted, the categorization of players on paper doesn’t necessarily reflect their tactical flexibility during a tournament. The wealth of attacking options suggests England will look to outscore opponents rather than engage in midfield battles.
This squad has the perfect blend of tournament experience—with seven players attending their first major competition—and proven winners who lifted the Euro 2022 trophy. The journey begins now, and all eyes will be on Switzerland to see if Wiegman’s calculated risks deliver the ultimate reward.
What are your thoughts on England’s Euro 2025 squad? Do you believe the midfield selection is too thin, or does the attacking talent compensate sufficiently? Share your predictions and analysis in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Crickex for comprehensive coverage throughout the tournament.
