In Manchester, England, Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from the England women’s national team after dedicating eight years to the Lionesses. She expressed that it is now time to pass the baton to the next generation of players.
During a Euro 2025 qualifier, Daly played in England’s 2-0 victory over Ireland on Tuesday.
In a post on X, the 32-year-old Aston Villa striker stated, “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.”
Reflecting on her career, Daly mentioned, “While today is extremely difficult for me, it is also one filled with reflection and gratitude.”
She added, “I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!”
Despite retiring from the national team, Daly will continue playing for her club Villa.
She highlighted winning the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 final and helping England reach the Women’s World Cup final for the first time in 2023 as significant moments in her career.
Daly, who made her debut for the Lionesses in 2016, came off the bench in Tuesday’s victory in Dublin, marking her 84th international cap.
Reporting by Lori Ewing, edited by Ed Osmond
