In an exclusive interview with NextMinuteNews, England and Manchester United goalkeeper Mary Earps opened up about her journey, setbacks, and the resilience that has made her one of the most celebrated figures in women’s football today. Reflecting on past challenges, Earps struck a tone of maturity and grace, stating, “I don’t look back with bad blood. It worked out well for everybody.”
Mary Earps’ Journey: From Setbacks to Stardom
Earps’ career hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Just a few years ago, she found herself on the fringes of both club and international football. After a challenging stint at Wolfsburg, where she struggled for game time, and a period of uncertainty following her return to England, many wondered if her best days were behind her.
However, the 31-year-old’s perseverance paid off. A move to Manchester United in 2019 marked the beginning of her resurgence. Under manager Marc Skinner, Earps became a cornerstone of the Red Devils’ defense, earning plaudits for her shot-stopping ability and leadership.
Lionesses’ Hero and FIFA Best Goalkeeper
Earps’ club form translated seamlessly onto the international stage. Under Sarina Wiegman’s management, she played a pivotal role in England’s Euro 2022 triumph, making crucial saves throughout the tournament. Her performances earned her the FIFA Best Women’s Goalkeeper award in 2023, solidifying her status as one of the world’s best.
Her journey hasn’t been without controversy. Earps publicly criticized Nike for not selling her England jersey, sparking a global conversation about gender equality in football. The backlash forced Nike to reverse its decision—a victory Earps sees as part of a larger push for fairness in the sport.
No Regrets, Only Growth for Mary Earps
When asked about past disappointments—including being dropped from England squads—Earps displayed remarkable perspective:
“Everything happens for a reason. Those tough moments shaped me. If I hadn’t gone through them, I wouldn’t be the player or person I am today.”
She also addressed past relationships with coaches and teammates, emphasizing she holds no grudges:
“Football is a team sport, and decisions are made for many reasons. I focus on what I can control. Looking back, things worked out the way they were supposed to.”
What’s Next for Mary Earps?
With Manchester United competing for WSL glory and England eyeing future tournaments, Earps remains driven. Off the pitch, she advocates for greater investment in women’s football, inspiring young athletes with her story.
“I want young girls to know setbacks don’t define you,” she said. “Keep working, keep believing, and your time will come.”
Final Thoughts: A Story of Resilience
Mary Earps’ career—from being overlooked to becoming a global star—exemplifies perseverance. As she put it, “It worked out well for everybody.” For fans, her best moments may still lie ahead.
Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for the latest on Mary Earps and women’s football.
