Lionesses Euro 2025 Preview: Can England Go Back-to-Back? Russo for Ballon d’Or, Earps’ Retirement & Navigating the Group of Death

By \[Ahmed Elashry]As UEFA Women’s SME News UK. Euro 2025 approaches, England’s Lionesses prepare to defend their crown under the ever-calm leadership of Sarina Wiegman. With major changes to the squad, retirements of key figures, and a brutally tough group ahead, all eyes are on whether the reigning champions can repeat their historic success. Former internationals Karen Carney and Fara Williams break down the key talking points as the countdown begins.Form Guide: Inconsistent but ExperiencedKaren Carney admits England’s form has been patchy in the build-up: “It’s not been as flawless as 2022. There’s been a dip, but it’s understandable with the global rise in quality. Still, the Lionesses have the tournament experience to turn up when it matters.”Fara Williams echoes the sentiment: “The form’s been mixed. The Nations League win against Portugal was strong, but the performance against Spain dipped after halftime. The frequent squad rotations have made it harder to find rhythm.”Squad Strength: Depth Meets YouthBoth experts agree the current England squad strikes a strong balance between experience and fresh faces.Carney highlights, “We’ve got players who’ve lifted the Euros, league titles, and the Champions League. That kind of pedigree matters.”Williams, while disappointed for omissions like Fran Kirby and Nikita Parris, believes the youthful selections bring impact: “The squad is still good enough to go all the way. There’s strength in depth and real bench power.”Missing Legends: Earps, Kirby & BrightThe retirements and absences of Mary Earps, Fran Kirby, and Millie Bright have left noticeable voids.Carney pays tribute: “They’ve left the jersey in a better place. Now it’s time for Hannah Hampton to step up. Losing Millie will hurt – she’s been a backbone.”Williams emphasizes their influence: “That trio formed the spine of the team. Their leadership and presence will be missed, and their absence might explain recent inconsistency. Others must now fill those boots.”Shock Retirement: Mary Earps’ DepartureEarps’ surprise retirement stunned the football world.Carney reflects: “It’s her decision and we respect it. She’s raised the standards of that position.”Williams adds: “As fans, we selfishly want stars to play forever, but her choice was personal. It’s hard to leave something that defines you.”Pressure on Wiegman: Familiar TerritoryBoth experts believe Wiegman will handle the pressure.“She’s a serial winner,” says Williams. “She’s reached four international finals and knows how to manage expectations.”Carney agrees: “Every manager faces pressure, but Sarina is composed and proven. In Sarina we trust.”Alessia Russo: Ballon d’Or Contender?Fara Williams believes Russo could earn football’s highest individual honour:“If England win the Euros and considering her performances at Arsenal, she must be in the conversation.”Carney adds: “Her development has been phenomenal. Her hold-up play, strength, and movement are world-class. With the right service, she could top the scoring charts.”Who to Watch: Rising & Returning StarsFara Williams’ Players to Watch:Alessia Russo – “A natural leader and clinical finisher.”Georgia Stanway – “Underrated, but vital. She lets Keira Walsh thrive.”Lauren James & Lauren Hemp – “Creative sparks. Fitness management will be key.”Karen Carney’s Picks:Grace Clinton & Jess Park – “Exciting young talents. This is their moment to shine.”Group of Death: France, Netherlands & Wales AwaitEngland face a brutal group stage test against France, Netherlands, and home nation rivals Wales.FranceCarney: “Their coach has shaken things up, even dropping Le Sommer. We know their style and can match them.”Williams: “They’re fast and unpredictable. Leaving out Wendie Renard was huge – leadership will be tested.”NetherlandsCarney: “Talented and tactically tricky. Their coaching change adds another layer.”Williams: “We’re familiar with their WSL players. Quiet in recent years, but dangerous.”WalesCarney: “A classic derby. Everything could hinge on this match.”Williams: “They’ll bring passion and pride. Always tough in home nation clashes.”Tournament Outlook: Knockouts Within ReachCarney says: “If we escape the group, momentum will carry us. We’ll be battle-tested for knockouts.”Williams agrees: “It’s the hardest group, but if we get through, we’re in a great spot. These tough tests are what build champions.” Tactical Setup & Super-SubsFara Williams is already thinking about game changers off the bench:“I’d keep Lauren James and Chloe Kelly as impact subs. James can shift the game in 15 minutes, and managing her minutes wisely could be key.”Final ThoughtThe Lionesses are chasing history once again – and though the path is harder, the potential remains sky-high. With new leaders emerging, veterans bowing out, and a squad rich with depth and flair, England’s Euro 2025 journey promises to be unmissable.Back-to-back glory? If anyone can do it, it’s Wiegman’s Lionesses.