Lionesses legend announces retirement from football at 32

Lewis Henderson
Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:41:55 +0000

Lioness legend Millie Bright has announced her retirement from football at the age of 32.

The centre-back, who spent over a decade at Chelsea, departs as the Blues' longest-serving player, having played an impressive 314 times since arriving from Doncaster Belles prior to the 2015 campaign.

Speaking about her decision, Bright said: "Representing Chelsea over the last 12 years has been everything to me, but I'm now ready to say goodbye to playing football.

"I've given all I can, and I never wanted to fight for any other badge.

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"It is now time, and I'm ready to go into a new era. I'm always going to be Chelsea, but just in a different way."

Throughout her 11-year stint in west London, Bright collected an extraordinary 20 pieces of silverware whilst wearing the captain's armband.

Following her departure from the pitch, the club announced she will transition into an ambassador position whilst also serving as a trustee for Chelsea's foundation.

Bright's retirement from club football follows her decision to step away from international duty in October 2025, having earned 88 caps for England.

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Her Lionesses career included lifting the European Championship trophy on home turf before leading the national side to the World Cup final as captain.

The defender's domestic achievements encompass eight Women's Super League (WSL) titles, six FA Cups and four League Cups, with treble-winning campaigns in both 2021 and 2025.

Last November, she eclipsed Jordan Nobbs' WSL appearance record of 210 during a draw with Liverpool.

Chelsea will honour their departing captain at Stamford Bridge on May 16 when Manchester United visit for the season's final league fixture.

Chelsea Women said: "Everyone at Chelsea is so proud of Millie's contribution to the club and the women's game during its unprecedented period of growth.

"We look forward to continuing to work with her as she moves into her roles off the pitch with the club.

"We will be marking Millie's loyal service ahead of our final WSL match of the season against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on May 16.

"Congratulations and good luck, Millie. We will be forever grateful for your contribution, and we know you are never done at Chelsea."