England heads into the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 in Switzerland as the defending champions, but their journey to the tournament has been anything but smooth. Sarina Wiegman's Lionesses are aiming to secure their second consecutive European title, but they face a challenging path, including being drawn into a "Group of Death" alongside the Netherlands, France, and Wales.

The Squad

Sarina Wiegman has named her 23-player squad for the Euro 2025. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and fresh faces, with seven players set to experience their first major tournament. Among the newcomers are Michelle Agyemang, Aggie Beever-Jones, Grace Clinton, Khiara Keating, Maya Le Tissier, Anna Moorhouse, and Jess Park. Thirteen players from the 2022 Euros-winning squad are also included, providing a strong foundation of experience.

The squad is as follows:

• Goalkeepers: Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), Khiara Keating (Manchester City), Anna Moorhouse (Orlando Pride).
• Defenders: Lucy Bronze (Chelsea), Jess Carter (Gotham FC), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Maya Le Tissier (Manchester United), Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit), Leah Williamson (Arsenal), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal).
• Midfielders: Grace Clinton (Manchester United), Jess Park (Manchester City), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Keira Walsh (Chelsea).
• Forwards: Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal), Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Lauren James (Chelsea), Chloe Kelly (Arsenal on loan from Manchester City), Beth Mead (Arsenal), Alessia Russo (Arsenal).

Challenges and Setbacks

The Lionesses' preparation for Euro 2025 has been marked by significant challenges. Several key players have either retired or withdrawn from selection. Goalkeeper Mary Earps and midfielder Fran Kirby both announced their retirements from international football, while defender Millie Bright opted out of the competition to focus on her mental and physical well-being. All three were key members of the Euro 2022-winning team. Injuries have also plagued the squad, with Lauren Hemp, Georgia Stanway, and Alex Greenwood being notable absentees in the lead-up to the tournament. However, there is a major boost as Lauren James has returned to the squad after recovering from an injury.

Key Players and Expected Line-up

Despite the challenges, England still boasts a formidable squad with several key players. Lucy Bronze is set to make her seventh tournament appearance for the Lionesses. Leah Williamson returns to captain the team after missing the World Cup due to injury. Lauren James' return is a significant boost.

Based on recent formations, a likely starting XI for England could be:

• Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton
• Defenders: Lucy Bronze, Leah Williamson, Alex Greenwood, Niamh Charles
• Midfielders: Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone
• Forwards: Lauren James, Alessia Russo, Lauren Hemp

Wiegman's Perspective

Sarina Wiegman acknowledges the challenges and the "noise" surrounding the team but remains confident in her players' ability to perform. She is aware of the tough competition in their group but believes the team can overcome it. Wiegman has received assurances from the Football Association that her position is secure beyond the tournament.

The Road Ahead

England will begin their Euro 2025 campaign against France on July 5 in Zurich. They will then face the Netherlands and Wales in the group stage. Before the tournament, England will play a send-off game against Jamaica on June 29 at Leicester City's King Power Stadium. This match will be the final opportunity for Wiegman to assess her squad's readiness and fine-tune tactics. Lauren James is expected to feature as a substitute in the friendly against Jamaica, as Wiegman carefully manages her return to full fitness.

Despite the challenges and changes in the squad, England remains determined to defend their title. The Lionesses have the talent and experience to compete with the best teams in Europe.