Mary Earps’ book reveals tensions within the Lionesses
Mary Earps has opened up about tensions within the England Woman’s football team in her recently released book, revealing her feelings of betrayal and disappointment regarding her departure from the national squad, reports BritPanorama.
Earps announced her decision to quit the Lionesses just five weeks before Euro 2025, stating she felt sidelined after learning she was no longer the first-choice goalkeeper. Her book, titled All In, chronicles her journey from an aspiring footballer to a celebrated player, but it is also marked by expressions of anger towards her former teammates and the management regime.
In the book, Earps criticises head coach Sarina Wiegman, labelling their last conversation “bullshit,” and questions the professional attitude of Hannah Hampton, the player who took over her position. Earps alleges that Hampton disrupted training sessions, creating a hostile environment within the team. This narrative presents a seldom-seen perspective on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the Lionesses.
The focus on these grievances contrasts sharply with the celebration of the team’s achievements, including winning the Euro 2022 championship. While the Lionesses have moved forward, Earps’ revelations have stirred debate about the nature of team camaraderie and professionalism.
Critics argue that after her exit, Earps’ character assessments may tarnish her legacy as a pioneering figure in women’s football, particularly given the respect she once commanded from supporters. The book makes sweeping claims about interpersonal conflicts but stops short of detailing the nature of incidents that led to her dissatisfaction.
Previously, it had been noted that concerns regarding Hampton’s attitude contributed to her temporary exit from the squad, but since then, Hampton has proven her mettle, notably by playing a crucial role in securing England’s recent championship triumph.
By aligning her narrative against Wiegman and Hampton, Earps risks alienating herself from fans who admire those players. While her feelings of betrayal and anger are evident, the ultimate implications of this public airing of grievances may inadvertently diminish her standing within the sport and among its followers.
Moreover, Earps has expressed a loss of trust in Wiegman, who she believes was not forthright regarding changes in team hierarchy. Notably, her own performance, including key errors leading up to her departure, is absent from her critique, leaving an incomplete picture of her situation.
Revisiting her struggles, Earps candidly discusses issues like her relationships with food and alcohol, areas often overlooked in discussions about athletes’ mental health and well-being. Her willingness to confront these subjects bravely adds a layer of authenticity to her narrative.
The broader implications of her story highlight systemic issues within women’s football, where athletes still navigate challenges related to funding and support, as illustrated by her experiences at Manchester United. These reflections shine a light on the pressures faced by elite female athletes, making her story relevant beyond personal conflict.
Overall, while Earps’ book serves as a significant reflection on her career and the complexities of team dynamics, it may ultimately detract from her legacy if perceived as an attempt to assign blame rather than foster understanding and growth.
The publication of ‘Mary Earps: All In: Football, Life and Learning to be Unapologetically Me’ by Leap is now available for £18.99.
