England women capped off a stunning tournament with their second European Championship win, lifting Euro 2025 and cementing their place as the dominant force in European competition.
But as the celebrations settle and thoughts turn to the 2027 World Cup qualifiers, head coach Sarina Wiegman faces a familiar but welcome challenge: how to evolve the squad while keeping momentum.
With Mary Earps retired from international duty, players like Lucy Bronze and Alex Greenwood nearing the twilight of their international careers, England’s next generation is being primed to step into the spotlight. Here are the rising stars ready to shape the future of the Lionesses.
1 – Hannah Hampton: England’s New Number 1
With Mary Earps stepping away from international duty ahead of Euro 2025, the goalkeeper position became a hot topic. The debate didn’t last long; Hannah Hampton grabbed the opportunity with both gloves, coming off the back of a domestic treble with Chelsea.
Now, the undisputed number 1 for both Chelsea and England, Hampton was immense during the Euros, with an 80% save percentage during the final against Spain. Her reflexes, composure on the ball, and growing leadership presence make her a perfect fit for Wiegman’s style. At just 24, she looks set to guard England’s goal well into the next decade.
2 – Midfield Talents Shaping The Next Era
Grace Clinton
A creative spark who thrives in tight spaces, Clinton impressed last season for Manchester United, making 21 appearances and scoring eight goals in the WSL. She was involved in five of the six games during the Euros, coming off the bench to help close out games. Her ability to glide past defenders, link play, and arrive late in the box makes her a real threat as a central attacking midfielder.
Jess Park
Part of England’s Euro 2025 squad, but only used as a second-half substitute against Wales, Park offers energy, creativity, and versatility. Comfortable playing in midfield or more advanced attacking roles, she’s a clever passer who can change the tempo of a game. Park has made 65 appearances for Manchester City in the WSL, scoring 22 goals. At just 23, she has the potential to become a mainstay in England’s starting 11 by the 2027 World Cup.
Attackers With Game-Changing Potential
Aggie Beever-Jones
After an impressive season at Chelsea, scoring nine goals in 22 appearances, Beever-Jones looks destined for regular England involvement. Powerful, direct, and clinical inside the box, she brings a different dynamic to England’s attack, one that could become crucial in the future. Beever-Jones made three appearances for England at Euro 2025, all from the bench, and scored one and assisted one in the win over Wales.
Chloe Kelly
Kelly has developed a reputation as England’s ultimate impact player. She scored the winning goal in the 2022 Euros final and the winning penalty in 2025, and also won the Champions League with Arsenal this season. With 134 WSL appearances, 39 goals, and 34 assists, along with an impressive trophy haul that includes 2x European Championships, 2x FA Cup, League Cup and Champions League, there is a growing belief that Kelly’s name should be first on the teamsheet come the 2027 World Cup.
Michelle Agyemang
One of the most exciting young attacking talents in the WSL, Agyemang combines pace, strength, and natural finishing ability. They are already shining at the youth international level. She scored twice in four appearances at Euro 2025, proving pivotal in keeping England’s title defence alive during the games against Italy and Sweden. Agyemang has the potential to break into the starting 11 sooner rather than later.
Future Anchors Of The Defence
Maya Le Tissier
Le Tissier has become one of the most consistent defenders in the WSL, having made 66 appearances for Manchester United. Composed, intelligent, and strong in one-on-one situations, she has the attributes to become a cornerstone of England’s back line for years to come. Le Tissier already has eight England caps, and with an ageing back line, she may find herself in contention for the World Cup.
Lotte Wubben-Moy
A commanding presence at Arsenal, Wubben-Moy brings leadership, aerial strength, and the ability to play out from the back. With Alex Greenwood and Mille Bright entering the latter stages of their careers, she is perfectly placed to step up as a senior defensive leader.
Esme Morgan
A reliable, athletic defender who has already seen England action with 16 caps. After missing out on the 2022 Euros due to Injury, Morgan made the squad for the 2025 Euros, making her major tournament debut. She made two appearances during Euro 2025, starting one game against Italy and coming off the bench against Sweden. She brings calmness and versatility, ideal traits for tournament football.
The Euro 2025 win was a statement of dominance, but also a platform for transition. With the likes of Hampton, Beever-Jones, and Agyemang rising, Sarina Wiegman has an exciting young core to build around. England’s next golden generation isn’t just coming, it’s already here. And if their development continues, the 2027 World Cup could be the stage where these Lionesses can truly roar.
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