After 11 years, 77 caps, and a European Championship medal, Fran Kirby has called time on her international career — a decision that, while emotional, feels timely and fitting.

The 31-year-old midfielder announced her retirement from England duty just an hour after the Lionesses’ defeat to Spain, following on the heels of Mary Earps, who also stepped away from the national team earlier in the week.

While Earps’ decision shocked many, Kirby’s exit felt more inevitable — a graceful conclusion to a remarkable career defined by resilience, creativity, and perseverance through immense personal and physical challenges.

Why Now? A Natural End Point

Kirby’s decision came after honest conversations with England manager Sarina Wiegman, who made it clear she wouldn’t be part of the squad for Euro 2025, just four weeks away.

The decision was clear-cut for Kirby: she’d given everything, but her body — and fate — had drawn the line.

“She’s an amazing player and an incredible person too,” said Wiegman. “She always gave her all. There comes a time to stop — and I’m proud I got to work with her.”

A Career Marked by Talent & Tenacity

Kirby was never short on ability. Dubbed “Mini Messi” by former coach Mark Sampson, she dazzled fans and teammates alike with her vision, control, and game-breaking brilliance. Her standout performance at the 2015 World Cup and integral role in England’s Euro 2022 triumph cemented her place among the sport’s elite.

But it’s her endurance through adversity that truly defines her legacy.

From knee and ankle injuries, to a life-threatening heart condition in 2019, to ongoing fitness issues that cost her spots at the 2023 World Cup and key matches in 2024, Kirby endured more than most ever will in top-level sport.

Despite missing time due to pericarditis, mental health struggles, and a series of injuries, she always came back stronger — and always delivered when called upon.

“She has had lots of ups and downs, but she can hold her head up really high,” said Ellen White, England’s record goalscorer.

The Legacy of ‘Mini Messi’

Kirby’s nickname wasn’t just catchy — it was earned. Her creativity and flair lit up the pitch for over a decade.

Former manager Phil Neville once claimed he’d take her over Brazil’s Marta, one of the game’s all-time greats, saying:

“I’ll take my No. 10 over theirs.”

Teammates, too, have been in awe.

“All the players who now play for England probably dreamed of playing with Fran Kirby one day,” said Lucy Bronze. “She was that good.”

She remains third on England’s all-time assists list and finishes her international career with 17 goals and countless iconic moments.

More Than a Footballer

Kirby’s impact extended well beyond the pitch.

• She overcame the death of her mother at age 14, quitting football for a time due to depression.
• She opened up about grief and mental health in a deeply personal 2019 article for The Players’ Tribune.
• She addressed body image issues and social media abuse in 2024, becoming a powerful voice for athlete welfare.
• In 2019, she received an honorary degree from the University of Winchester for her work on mental health awareness.

After leaving Chelsea last year, Kirby joined Brighton, where she was recently named the club’s Player of the Season.

A Graceful Goodbye

In her retirement statement, Kirby wrote:

“Just remember you can.”

It’s a simple message — but a profound one from a player who lived it. She proved time and again that even when the odds were stacked against her, she could rise.

What’s Next?

Kirby’s club career will continue in the Women’s Super League, but her place in the history of England’s women’s football is already secure — not just for her talent, but for the resilience that made her journey unforgettable.

Her final international legacy? An icon who overcame, inspired, and lit up the game.