The Rise of Mary Earps: Unveiling the World’s Best England Goalkeeper

Sport Football: Mary Earps – The England Goalkeeper and World’s Best in Profile

Introduction

In the world of women’s football, one name has been making waves in recent years – Mary Earps. Affectionately known as “Mearps,” Earps has become England‘s number one goalkeeper and is widely regarded as one of the best in the world. However, her journey to success has not been without its challenges. In this profile, we explore Earps’ rise to prominence, her struggles with confidence, and the impact of Sarina Wiegman on her career.

A Rocky Start

Before the arrival of Sarina Wiegman as England manager in September 2021, Earps believed her chances of ever being part of the national team were slim. Despite making her debut against Switzerland in 2017, she received only a few caps thereafter before falling out of favor. Earps’ form was so poor that she considered quitting football altogether. In an interview with the BBC, she reminisced about the days of feeling down and having doubts about her abilities. The pressure of responsibilities, such as a mortgage, only added to her uncertainty.

A Turning Point

But then, in a twist of fate, Sarina Wiegman took charge of the England team, and everything changed for Earps. Wiegman’s arrival reignited Earps’ passion for the game and restored her self-belief. Earps expressed her gratitude and admiration for Wiegman, saying that she understood where she came from and displayed empathy for her as a human being. This level of understanding and honesty was a refreshing change for Earps, who had not experienced it often in her football career.

A Career in the Making

Earps’ football journey dates back to her youth, where she was spotted playing for West Bridgford Colts by Leicester City. Although she never made a senior appearance for Leicester City, Earps moved on to Nottingham Forest and then Doncaster Rovers Belles, where she briefly established herself before being sent out on loan to Coventry City without playing. She continued to ply her trade with Birmingham City, Bristol Academy, and Reading before landing a permanent spot in Frauen-Bundesliga champions Wolfsburg. In 2019, she joined Manchester United, where she currently plays.

Building Confidence

Under Wiegman’s guidance, Earps has grown into one of the most confident performers in the squad. The shift in her self-esteem was evident during the Finalissima shootout against Brazil in April when she narrowly missed saving Brazil’s first penalty. In an interview, she shared her mindset during that crucial moment, stating that she refused to let doubt creep in. Instead, she declared, “This is mine – and I’m having it.” Such determination and self-assurance reflect the transformation Wiegman has helped Earps achieve both on and off the field.

Conclusion

Mary Earps’ story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the power of effective leadership. From contemplating quitting football to being celebrated as one of the world’s best goalkeepers, her journey is a testament to the impact a supportive manager can have on an athlete’s career. Sarina Wiegman’s arrival and understanding of Earps’ struggles rekindled her passion and unleashed her full potential. As Earps continues to excel on the field, her success serves as a reminder that with the right guidance and belief, even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome.