As England’s women’s football team returns from Australia following their defeat in the Women’s World Cup final, they’re looking to the future, focusing on upcoming competitions and addressing off-field matters.
In the next two years, the team’s calendar is packed with exciting opportunities, including participating in the inaugural Women’s Nations League, Olympic Games qualification, and defending their European title.
Off-field, several key issues must be addressed, such as negotiations regarding player bonuses and the potential extension of coach Sarina Wiegman’s contract.
The Future for Wiegman and Lucy Bronze?
Sarina Wiegman has made history by being the first coach to lead two different nations to the Women’s World Cup final in consecutive tournaments. She’s widely considered the top female coach in football, and her future was the subject of speculation leading up to the final.
Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham has asserted that they will “100% reject” any offers for Wiegman after rumors of her candidacy for the vacant USA job. Wiegman herself has stated her intention to stay with England, though her contract will expire in 2025. When asked about future endeavors with England, she emphasized the immediate focus on the Nations League and Olympics but expressed hope for future special moments with the team.
England’s seasoned player, Lucy Bronze, has also confirmed her intention to continue with the national team, putting to rest any speculation about her retirement.
Bonus Payment Disputes
The England team went to the World Cup amid disagreements with the Football Association over performance-related bonuses. Though the players were dissatisfied with the FA’s decision not to grant bonuses, they paused negotiations during the tournament. CEO Bullingham has promised that the matter will be “sorted after the tournament.” Individual payments from FIFA are also expected, but negotiations may take several weeks to resolve.
Nations League and Olympic Qualifications
September brings the start of the Nations League matches, where England will compete in League A, facing Scotland, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The tournament’s standings will impact promotion and relegation between leagues and determine qualification for the Women’s Nations League finals. The Nations League will also influence qualification for Euro 2025 and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Wiegman is expected to lead any British side, reflecting England’s previous role as the qualifying nation for the Olympics.
Impact on Women’s Super League (WSL)
The Lionesses’ performance at the World Cup is expected to have a significant impact on the Women’s Super League, which resumes on 1 October. Following their success at Euro 2022, there were record viewership and attendance during the domestic season. With the team’s strong showing in Australia and an impending takeover of the WSL, a new broadcast deal could bring substantial revenue to the women’s game.
In conclusion, though the Women’s World Cup 2023 ended in defeat for England, the team’s future looks promising with exciting competitions ahead, talented players committed to the cause, and growth within the domestic league. Off-field issues, such as bonus payments and Wiegman’s contract renewal, will require careful management, but the foundations for continued success appear to be firmly in place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword: England’s Women’s football team
What are England’s Women’s football team’s upcoming competitions?
England’s Women’s football team has a packed schedule, including participation in the inaugural Women’s Nations League, Olympic Games qualification, and the defense of their European title.
Who is Sarina Wiegman and what’s her future with England’s Women’s football team?
Sarina Wiegman is England’s Women’s football team coach and the first to reach the Women’s World Cup final with two different nations. Her contract expires in 2025, but she has expressed interest in staying with England.
What is the dispute over player bonus payments?
The England players were in dispute with the Football Association over performance-related bonuses going into the World Cup. The FA’s decision not to grant bonuses frustrated the players, and negotiations are expected to be resolved in the coming weeks.
What impact will England’s performance have on the Women’s Super League (WSL)?
The team’s success at Euro 2022 led to record viewership and attendance. Their strong showing at the Women’s World Cup in Australia is also expected to impact the WSL positively, potentially bringing significant revenue with a new broadcast deal.
Is Lucy Bronze retiring from England’s Women’s football team?
Lucy Bronze, one of England’s most experienced players, confirmed that she is not retiring from the national team.
What’s the significance of the Nations League and Olympic Qualifications for England?
The Nations League matches, beginning in September, will affect promotion and relegation between leagues and qualification for the Women’s Nations League finals. It also impacts qualification for Euro 2025 and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. England is likely to carry the responsibility again for Olympic qualification, with Wiegman expected to lead any British side.
More about fokus keyword: England’s Women’s football team
- FIFA Women’s World Cup
- Women’s Nations League
- England’s Women’s Football Team
- Women’s Super League (WSL)
- 2024 Olympic Games – Paris
5 comments
England’s futur looks bright with all these tournaments and the impact on the WSL. but I worry about the negotiations and hope they settle it soon. it’ll be good for the game.
Who else is super excited about the inaugural Women’s Nations League? Finally the recognition women’s football deserves. Can’t wait for September’s matches! England all the way.
Cant believe England didnt win the World Cup. But its great to see that they have so many opportunities coming up. Sarina Wiegman is an absolute legend, hope she stays!
Wiegman and Bronze are the best, their dedication is so inspiring to young players like my daughter! Womens football is growing and i cant wait for the next tournament.
Players not getting bonuses? Seems pretty unfair to me. They work as hard as the men, why are they treated diferently? Time to sort it out FA!