Former England goalkeeper Mary Earps says she is unsure whether she is ready to be back under the spotlight after signing for the London City Lionesses.
After two seasons with Paris St-Germain, the 33-year-old has returned to the Women’s Super League—and to the intense attention around the English game that she referenced in a BBC interview last year.
Like many high-profile women in sport, Earps has dealt with social media abuse throughout her career, and some also questioned her 2023 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.
She later faced criticism from fans and Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor over remarks about former England team-mate Hannah Hampton and head coach Sarina Wiegman in her autobiography, published last November.
Asked by BBC Sport if she is ready to be scrutinised again in England, Earps said she wasn’t sure. She noted the game can feel overwhelming at times, particularly with the rise of social media, and that attention now comes with the territory.
She added that you have to accept both positives and negatives: the sport has worked hard to grow its presence online for years, even if that brings challenges.
Ultimately, she said she still doesn’t know, but views the heightened scrutiny as a sign of how far the women’s game has come and something to take in stride.
Earps joins an ambitious London City team reshaped by American businesswoman Michele Kang since her takeover in December 2023.
Kang’s investment has re-energised the club, which finished sixth in its first WSL season after winning promotion in 2025.
“She’s a powerful figure in business, and as someone who’s passionate about that world, I’m inspired by successful businesswomen,” Earps said.
She explained they spoke via video call and that, given Kang’s many projects, she was struck that Kang made time to meet, praising her drive and consistent commitment to investing in women’s sport. Earps said the conversation left her excited to join the club.
Earps helped England win Euro 2022 and reach the 2023 World Cup final, losing to Spain, before retiring from international duty last year with 53 caps.
Having signed a two-year deal with London City, she said she isn’t ready to step away from the game just yet and wants to make the most of every opportunity.
She described herself as in a new stage of her career—more experienced and clearer about her priorities and identity.
Earps feels the club’s project in women’s football aligns with her values and ambitions, and hopes that will make everyday life at the club enjoyable.
She added that she remains the same Mary—now with a bit more experience, personality, passion and energy—focused on working hard to be the best player and person she can be every day and every time she steps onto the pitch.