The anticipation for the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Brazil is mounting, especially following England’s recent success in the European Championships. As the nation basks in its second consecutive title victory, attention is inevitably drawn to the challenges that lie ahead for the Lionesses at the next global stage. Having reached the finals in Australia just two years ago but facing a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat against Spain, there remains a palpable sense of urgency within the squad to fill the notable gap in their trophy cabinet.
Sarina Wiegman, the team’s manager, has an impressive record, having clinched three European titles—but the World Cup trophy still eludes her. Her previous appearances in World Cup finals—once leading the Netherlands and once England—only fuel her desire to guide the Lionesses to ultimate glory. The 2027 tournament, set to take place in Brazil, presents a unique opportunity for a refreshed team to rise to the occasion and make a significant impact.
Looking ahead, the question arises: what will the England team look like in two years? Several veteran players, including Lucy Bronze, present intriguing narratives as they navigate their careers towards potential retirement. At 35, Bronze remains a vital figure in the squad. Despite her advanced years, she continues to perform at a high level, having participated in Chelsea’s Women’s Super League campaign and garnered accolades at Euro 2025. However, concerns regarding her physical condition persist, especially after playing through injuries during recent tournaments.
Alongside Bronze, other key players like Alex Greenwood and Beth Mead, both over 30, round out a veteran core whose experience could be invaluable. However, looming uncertainties arise about their longevity and readiness for another significant tournament. Millie Bright, another essential member of the squad, faces challenges as she recovers from injuries and contemplates her future with the national team.
In contrast to the aging core, the squad is also benefitting from an influx of talented young players ready to make their mark. Teenage striker Michelle Agyemang, displaying a predatory instinct with three goals in just five caps, could soon challenge established stars like Alessia Russo. Moreover, Grace Clinton’s performance at club level positions her as a promising contender to break into the starting XI. She has proven her worth in crucial moments, and Wiegman’s reliance on her during Euro 2025 reflects a potential shift in midfield dynamics.
As England aims for a well-rounded squad, the integration of promising talents is vital. Other players such as Aggie Beever-Jones, Jess Park, and Maya le Tissier are making headlines and could become indispensable as they gain more experience leading up to the World Cup.
However, the competition promises to be fierce, with the United States and Spain standing out as England’s primary rivals. The U.S., now under the management of Emma Hayes, has reclaimed its position atop the world rankings after a brief setback in the 2023 World Cup. Their resilience, highlighted by Olympic success shortly after Hayes’ appointment, makes them formidable opponents. Spain, the current World Cup champions, will strive to retain their title after a thrilling performance that led them to a runner-up finish at Euro 2025.
Additionally, local conditions in Brazil could pose challenges for the English side, considering that many of their players are accustomed to cooler climates compared to the hotter environments that the American and Spanish squads thrive in. Nonetheless, historical precedents from other tournaments remind us that European teams can perform exceptionally, regardless of the conditions.
All in all, England’s journey to the World Cup will be marked by a delicate balance between honoring the past contributions of seasoned players while cultivating a new generation of talents to lead the team into the future. As the Lionesses prepare to embark on this quest, the blend of youth and experience will be crucial as they strive to conquer the world stage once more.