Sarina Wiegman Expresses Gratitude For FA's Support As England Prepares For Euro 2025

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Sarina Wiegman expressed her gratitude for the Football Association's (FA) confidence in her leadership as England gears up to defend their European Championship title. Mark Bullingham, the FA's chief executive, assured Wiegman of her job security regardless of England's performance at Euro 2025. The Opta supercomputer predicts a 16.1% chance for England to reclaim the trophy, with Spain posing a significant challenge at 24.8%.

England's journey under Wiegman has been notable, having won Euro 2022 and reaching their first World Cup final in 2023, albeit losing to Spain 1-0. Bullingham anticipates Wiegman's continued leadership as they prepare for the 2027 World Cup, with her contract extending until then. Wiegman expressed delight over the support she has received from the FA.

"We have had conversations. I extended my contract until 2027 after the World Cup. We are going into a new tournament now. I feel very happy here," Wiegman stated before England's friendly against Jamaica. She emphasized her excitement about the upcoming tournament and acknowledged the challenging group they face.

Wiegman remains optimistic about England's prospects in Euro 2025, stating, "We're just really excited to go into the tournament, and we're convinced that we can do really well." She acknowledged the tough competition but is determined to advance past the group stage.

England will play Jamaica at King Power Stadium on Sunday as their only warm-up match before the tournament. Wiegman mentioned that Lauren James might participate after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in April. James was a standout player during England's 2023 World Cup campaign, contributing three goals and three assists.

"We have to manage the minutes. She's doing really well, but of course, she hasn't played games yet," said Wiegman regarding James' potential involvement. James is expected to come off the bench as she gradually increases her playing time.

Wiegman praised James' training performance and readiness for game action: "She showed up in the training sessions really well. She could cope with loads and recover from loads." As James returns to match fitness, Wiegman plans to integrate her into the team progressively during Euro 2025 preparations.

The anticipation builds as England prepares for Euro 2025 under Wiegman's guidance. With strong backing from the FA and key players like Lauren James returning to form, England aims to make a significant impact in the tournament once again.