Wiegman Drops Toone and Kelly from England Squad Ahead of World Cup Playoffs

England women's national team coach Sarina Wiegman has made a bold decision by excluding two of her prominent players, Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly, from the squad for the upcoming World Cup playoff against Greece this October.

Both Toone and Kelly have been instrumental figures for England in recent years, playing pivotal roles in England's successes in 2022 and 2025. The playoff match against Greece represents a critical stage in England's quest to secure their place in the 2026 FIFA Women's World Cup, making their exclusion particularly noteworthy.

Wiegman's decision underscores her commitment to selecting players based on current form rather than past achievements or reputations. She openly stated that the main reason behind leaving Toone and Kelly out was that their recent performances had not met the standards she expects on the pitch. This move serves as a clear warning to the entire England squad that maintaining high performance levels at club level is essential for international selection.

The impact of this decision could be significant for both the players and the team. For Toone and Kelly, it is a stark reminder that consistent excellence is required to remain in contention for major tournaments. For the squad as a whole, it reinforces a meritocratic approach that could increase competition for places and potentially elevate overall team standards ahead of the World Cup.

Wiegman’s straightforward and honest communication style in explaining her choices signals a no-nonsense attitude that could galvanize the squad. It also highlights the pressure on players to perform consistently, especially as the World Cup approaches and expectations are high.

Looking ahead, England will face Greece in the crucial playoff fixture in October, with the winner securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The squad selection changes suggest Wiegman is preparing a team she believes is in peak form and ready to meet the challenges ahead. As the playoff looms, all eyes will be on how the team adapts without two of its recent heroes and whether this tough call pays off on the pitch.

For further details, see the original report on The Guardian.