Sarina Wiegman has stated that Beth Mead's next transfer will be a "very important" factor in determining the England forward's chances of participating in the 2027 Women's World Cup, as the outgoing Arsenal player seeks more consistent starting opportunities.
Mead's Future Move
The 31-year-old is reportedly close to finalising a move to Manchester City, following confirmation that she will leave Arsenal at the conclusion of her contract this summer after nine years with the club. Mead, who was instrumental in England's 2022 European Championship victory, featured in 21 of Arsenal's 22 league matches this season but started only 12 of them.
"I think [it is] very important," Wiegman remarked when questioned about Mead's next steps. "She is still very ambitious and I believe she still possesses the highest level of ability. At Arsenal, they have such a strong squad and play numerous games, so minutes are distributed across the team. She wants to secure a good move and compete for the World Cup, aiming to make the squad next year. While that is a long way off, she must make the right decision."
Squad Updates for Qualifiers
Wiegman has recalled Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone, Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones, and London City Lionesses winger Freya Godfrey after injuries, for next month's two crucial World Cup qualifiers. Mead is also included in the 25-player squad.
The Lionesses will face Spain in Mallorca on 5 June before hosting Ukraine at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium four days later in their final fixture of this qualifying group. England currently top the group with four wins from four matches, including a valuable home victory over Spain at Wembley in April, placing them in a strong position to automatically qualify for next summer's finals in Brazil. Only the group winners will avoid the playoffs.
Toone's Return
Wiegman acknowledged it is too early to determine whether Toone can play "90 minutes at the highest level" but added, "It's nice she's back. There are a few players who haven't played many minutes. I still consider them the best players, and they can maximise our chances of winning when they are on the pitch. However, we have a squad of 25, providing ample options."
Parkinson Omitted
There is no place in the squad for 18-year-old Erica Meg Parkinson, who was a surprise inclusion in April's squad. Discussing her omission, Wiegman said, "Erica joined the squad for the first time as a young player and turned 18 during our camp. We wanted to assess her, and she demonstrated what we expected. I mentioned in the April press conference that it would be surprising if she immediately started, but she showed some positive aspects. There remains a gap for her to earn minutes and compete with other players in the squad."
