Mary Earps returns to WSL, unsure about facing spotlight again

Former England women's football goalkeeper Mary Earps has signed a two-year contract with London City Lionesses, returning to the Women's Super League (WSL) after two seasons with Paris St-Germain. The 33-year-old, who last year described the WSL as "the craziness of England" in a BBC interview, is now back in the English top flight.

Earps has faced significant online abuse throughout her career, as well as criticism for winning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in 2023. Additionally, she drew backlash from fans and Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor following controversial comments about former England teammate Hannah Hampton and manager Sarina Wiegman in her autobiography published last November.

When asked by BBC Sport if she is ready to face scrutiny back in England, Earps replied: "I don't know. The game can be noisy and that's hard to deal with sometimes. It comes with the territory as social media has boomed. I'm a believer that you've got to take the good with the bad. We've worked hard to build the game on socials, but it is hard sometimes. I don't know is the honest answer, but it's also a big compliment about where the game is. You've got to take the rough with the smooth."

Earps joins a London City side that has been transformed by American businesswoman Michele Kang since her takeover in December 2023. Kang's investment has elevated the club, which finished sixth in its debut WSL season after promotion in 2025.

"She's a powerful businesswoman, and I'm inspired by businesswomen," Earps said. "We had a video conversation, and I was impressed she could make time for me. Her energy is infectious, and her investment in women's sport has been consistent. I'm excited to be part of the club."

Earps helped England win Euro 2022 and reach the 2023 World Cup final, where they lost to Spain. She retired from international football last year with 53 caps.

"I'm not ready for the real world yet," she added. "I'm in a different phase of my career—experienced, wiser. This club and project feel special. Our values align. I'm hoping it will be fun every day. I'm the same old Mary, maybe with a bit more wisdom and energy, trying to be the best player and person I can be."