Lucy Bronze: Chelsea Full-Back Crowned England Women’s Player of the Year
Lucy Bronze has been named the England Women’s Player of the Year for the 2024-25 season. The Chelsea full-back received this honor following a remarkable year that concluded with the Lionesses’ victory in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 held in Switzerland. Bronze expressed her gratitude, stating that recognition from the fans is incredibly meaningful to her.
Lucy Bronze’s Remarkable Year
At 33 years old, Bronze reflected on her career and the significance of this award. “I adore playing for England and I have put my heart and soul into every game over the last 12 years,” she said. “I’m very proud.” In the 2024-25 season, she made 16 appearances for the national team, contributing to the team’s triumph at the Euros.
Key Statistics from the 2024-25 Season
- Total appearances for England: 16
- Starts: 15
- Matches played in Euros: 6
- Caps since debut: 140
- Rank on all-time appearance list: Joint-fourth with Alex Scott
During the quarter-finals against Sweden at the Euros, Bronze made a crucial impact by scoring a header in the 79th minute, which initiated a comeback leading to a penalty shootout. In a dramatic finish, she successfully converted the winning penalty kick while playing with a thigh injury. Remarkably, she participated in the final against Spain with a fractured leg, culminating in another penalty shootout win after a 1-1 draw.
Career Highlights and Impact
Bronze, a two-time European champion, has played in 36 games across seven major tournaments, the highest for any Lionesses player. Reflecting on her journey, she noted the pivotal years of 2015 and 2019, marking her development as a key player. “The way we won the Euros and the noise around women’s football this year has been out of this world,” she added.
Acknowledgments from Peers
Chloe Kelly and Hannah Hampton, both teammates, were recognized for their contributions in the tournament as well. Kelly, who scored the decisive penalty against Spain, and Hampton, named player of the match in the final, finished as the second and third on the voting list for the Player of the Year award.
Despite facing injuries and making limited appearances for Chelsea this season, Bronze has been named to the England squad for upcoming friendlies against Brazil on October 25 and Australia on October 28.
