The LGBTQIA football star has decided to hang up her boots on the global stage
BY MEGAN BONLEY, IMAGE BY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
With 84 caps for England and having played a pivotal role in the winning Euros 2022 team, Rachel Daly has announced that she will be retiring from International Football. She is continuing her career as Aston Villa’s striker.
Her announcement came on Wednesday 10 April, after she came on as a substitute the day before in the Euro 2025 qualifiers. England secured themselves a 2-0 win over the Republic of Ireland.
Her debut for England was against Serbia in 2016, scoring the first of her 16 goals.
The BBC reported that Rachel said: “I would love nothing more to play for England forever but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.”
“While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it’s also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been a privilege.”
Sarina Wiegman, England manager, said: “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.”
“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.”
Daly took to Instagram to announce her emotional international retirement. The caption reads: “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”
One of her International teammates, and Man City defender, Alex Greenwood, commented: “One of the best, on & off the pitch. Been a pleasure, Rach.”
Even though her career with England is over, Daly has said that she will continue to be “England’s number one fan”, but it is the right time “to pass on the baton” to the new generation of England players.
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