Why isn't Millie Bright at the Euros this summer?

Millie Bright on the pitch for England
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Millie Bright will not play a part in this summer's Euros as England attempt to defend their crown.

The Chelsea captain and defender, who won the Euros in 2022, is not included in Sarina Wiegman's 23-player squad.

But why won't the 31-year-old take to the pitch in Switzerland?

Millie Bright: Defender steps back to put health first

Millie Bright of England in action during the UEFA Women's Nations League 2024/25 Grp A3 MD1 match between Portugal and England at Estadio Municipal de Portimao on February 21, 2025 in Portimao, Portugal.

Millie Bright has put her wellbeing first (Image credit: Getty Images)

Bright withdrew from England's recent Nations League games because she was not 100% physically or mentally.

The break was not enough time for the star to get back to full fitness and for her mental health to be in the right place for this summer. Therefore, she withdrew herself from England selection.

Millie Bright and Alessia Russo of England celebrate after team-mate Lucy Bronze scored the opening goal during the UEFA Women's Nations League 2024/25 Grp A3 MD3 match between England and Belgium at Ashton Gate on April 04, 2025 in Bristol, England.

Millie Bright is an experienced player for England (Image credit: Getty Images)

She said in a statement on social media: "Football has given me so much, and representing my country has always been my greatest honour.

"My pride and ego tells me to go but I think the team and the fans deserve more.

"Right now I'm not able to give 100% mentally or physically.

"As much as I want to be out there running through brick walls for England and fighting alongside my team mates, stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future in the game and most importantly the team."

Jess Park of England celebrates scoring her team's first goal with teammates Millie Bright and Grace Clinton during the UEFA Women's Nations League 2024/25 Grp A3 MD2 match between England and Spain at Wembley Stadium on February 26, 2025 in London, England.

Millie bright won the domestic treble this season with Chelsea (Image credit: Getty Images)

Bright was the captain at the 2023 World Cup in place of the then-injured Leah Williamson.

The team will miss the Chelsea player's leadership qualities as well as her defensive skills this summer.

However, crucially Bright did not announce her retirement which leaves the door open for her to return to the squad when she feels she is ready.

Sarah Rendell
Women's football editor

Sarah joined the FourFourTwo team in September 2024 in a freelance role. She also writes for The Guardian, BBC and Rugby World where she specialises in women's football and rugby. Sarah has a bachelors degree in English and a master's in newspaper journalism.