Daly Announces International Retirement

April 10, 2024 James Gregory England 1

(Image credit: @Lionesses)

England forward, Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international football. 

Daly has represented England at various youth levels and scored on her senior debut in June 2016 in a 7-0 win over Serbia in 2017 UEFA Women’s Euro Qualifying, before she went on to score 16 goals in 84 international appearances.

The Harrogate-born player also was part of England’s title-winning UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 squad on home soil, having started every match at left-back underlining her versatility across the pitch and was part of the squad who finished runners-up at 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“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,” commented Daly on her decision to retire as she proceeded to reflect upon her journey and making history.

“While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.

“During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.

“It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.

“Winning the EUROs and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.

“I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.

“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!”

England Women’s manager, Sarina Wiegman meanwhile paid tribute to Daly for her involvement in the team’s success.

“Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we’ve made together. It has been a privilege to work with her.

“I have never worked with a player so versatile, always with a smile on her face, bringing energy and trying to do her best for the team.

“Off the pitch she is always up for a joke or a nice conversation. She’ll be missed not just by me but all the other staff members, players and of course the fans.

“It is sad that she won’t be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she becomes our No.1 fan. I would love to see her in the stands in future cheering for us and helping us to get some more wins.”

Speaking on behalf of England’s FA, Women’s Technical Director – Kay Cossington added: “It is really hard to put Rachel’s contribution to the Lionesses into words. She is a phenomenal individual who has been a huge asset to the England team, on and off the pitch.

“She’s put her heart and soul into every game, playing not only for the badge but playing for every little girl who loves the sport.  She’s said that the place will be quieter without her but I actually think it won’t be the same without her. Her talent and charisma will be sorely missed by players and staff.”

Cossington also confirmed that the team and FA will pay tribute to Daly at an upcoming home match when the time is right.

Daly’s final appearance for England came as a 86th minute substitute in their win over Republic of Ireland last night (9 April), in an UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier.

Following Daly’s announcement, her England teammates Georgia Stanway and Fran Kirby paid tribute on social media platform, X.

Ireland’s Denise O’Sullivan also tweeted Daly to congratulate her on her “unbelievable career.”

Prince William meanwhile paid a personal tribute thanking Daly for “so many unforgettable performances”, whilst humorously wishing for more goals from Daly for her current club – Aston Villa, who he is famously known to be a massive fan of in English Football.

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