Mary Earps is gearing up for a highly anticipated return to the Women’s Super League (WSL) as she prepares to debut for London City Lionesses against her former club, Manchester United. The match, scheduled for Friday at 19:00 BST, carries significant emotional weight for Earps, who spent five successful seasons at United, where she established herself as one of the top goalkeepers in women's football.
During her tenure at Manchester United, Earps not only became the team's number one goalkeeper but also earned recognition on the international stage. She was instrumental in England's triumph at Euro 2022 and played a vital role in their journey to the World Cup final in 2023. Her impressive performances led to her being named FIFA's goalkeeper of the year twice, solidifying her status as a key figure in women's football.
After a stint at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where she made 22 appearances in the French league last season, Earps expressed her desire to return to England and the WSL. Reflecting on her time in Paris, she stated, "PSG is a great club... it was good for me to be able to take a period of reflection away from the craziness in England." However, the allure of the WSL and the unique atmosphere of English football ultimately drew her back.
Earps recalls her previous experiences at Old Trafford fondly, noting the warm reception she received during a Women’s Champions League match while playing for PSG. "United has changed a lot since I left, but I spent five wonderful years there and I made amazing memories," she told BBC Sport. Her connection with the fans remains strong, and she is eager to contribute to her new team while facing the club that helped shape her career.
As she joins London City Lionesses, Earps is not only bringing her wealth of experience but also joining a squad that includes notable players like two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and Spanish defender Mapi Leon. Despite her illustrious background, she acknowledges the competitive nature of the squad, particularly with Elene Lete having performed well in the previous season. "I’m trying to earn my place in the team every single day," Earps remarked, highlighting her commitment to contributing to the team's success.
Looking ahead, Earps aims to make a significant impact at London City and help the club rise in the WSL standings. She signed a two-year deal and is determined to play at the highest level for as long as possible. "I want to continue to play at the highest level, to win at the highest level for as long as possible and to be a part of something special," she stated, expressing her ambitions for the future.
As the WSL season opener approaches, all eyes will be on Earps as she prepares to step onto the pitch against Manchester United, a match that not only marks her return to the league but also represents a new chapter in her career. With her vast experience and passion for the game, Earps is poised to make a significant contribution to the London City Lionesses and the WSL as a whole.
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