Ellen White retires from professional football

Manchester City and England striker Ellen White has confirmed her retirement from professional football.

White was a key part of the Lionesses side that won Euro 2022 and is the leading scorer for the women's side with 52 goals in 113 appearances.

The striker was the joint-top goalscorer at the 2019 World Cup after finding the net on six occasions in France, and she is a two-time WSL champion with Arsenal.

"This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life but one that I know is the right decision for me," White wrote on Twitter. "This decision has always been one I have wanted to make on my terms. And this is my time to say goodbye to football and watch the next generation shine.

"This is for the next generation and potentially the next Lioness. You don't have to be the best at something to make your dreams come true, just look at me. Hard work, dedication, passion and love for what you do are a great recipe.

"Don't ever let someone tell you "you can't do something or achieve your dreams". I was once told I couldn't play in the boys team and I would never play for England. Now I am retiring having made 113 caps with 52 goals for England and a European Champion. Go out there and be the very best version of you!

"Finally, let's use the momentum from the Euro's win to make sure that every young person in all communities has the opportunity to play and feel connected to all England football teams. Enjoy every moment! Thank you football..."

White signed off her career in style, with the Euro 2022 final at Wembley the last game of her professional career. The 33-year-old started all six matches at the European Championships, netting two goals as the Lionesses secured their maiden piece of silverware.

“Ellen has given so much for England and we are all so proud of her," said England manager Sarina Wiegman. "I have only had the pleasure of working with her for this past year, but her professionalism, work rate and finishing ability is world-class. 

“This summer, she did an amazing job for the team, she is the perfect team player and helped the younger players to find their way in international football. I already knew she was a great player but I found an even better person. We will miss her, but I fully understand her decision to take a new direction.”

White began her career at Chelsea before moving to Leeds and then Arsenal in 2010, where she would go on to win seven major trophies.

The forward enjoyed spells at Notts County and Birmingham before signing for City in 2019. She finishes her club career as the second top scorer in WSL history, having found the net 61 times in the top flight.

White also featured at two Olympic games for Team GB, and was the team's top scorer at Tokyo 2020 with six goals - including a hat-trick in the quarter finals against Australia.

"Ellen is without doubt an icon of the game, and although her career is now at its end, her efforts have paved the way for so many to flourish in the future," said City boss Gareth Taylor.

"She has been the definition of the consummate professional and I feel incredibly privileged to have been able to work with her over the past two seasons - her name will be written into the history books as an icon of women’s football."