Former England captain Millie Bright retires from football

FootballSports
29 Apr 2026 • 6:11 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Former England captain Millie Bright retires from football

  • Millie Bright, Chelsea's captain and longest-serving player, has announced her retirement from professional football at the age of 32.
  • During her 11 years at Stamford Bridge, Bright made 314 appearances and secured an impressive 20 trophies, including eight Women’s Super League titles.
  • She also had a distinguished international career, earning 88 caps for England, winning the Euros in 2022, and captaining the Lionesses to the World Cup final the following year.
  • Bright expressed that she is “ready to go into a new era”, stating she had given her all and was prepared for a different role within the club.
  • Chelsea confirmed she will remain involved as a trustee of their foundation and a club ambassador, with a tribute planned for her during the final WSL match on 16 May.

IN FULL