Lionesses

England have not had a competitive fixture since winning Euro 2025 as they beat China 8-0 and Ghana 2-0 in friendly matches at the end of last year.

Before that, they suffered a 2-1 defeat by Brazil on their homecoming return but recorded a 3-0 win over Australia three days later.

The matches gave Wiegman an opportunity to test new players and formations – handing a debut to 30-year-old goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse in the process.

Among those to receive their first senior call-ups to the squad were defenders Anouk Denton, Taylor Hinds and forward Freya Godfrey.

There was also time for England stars Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze and Lauren James to recover from lengthy injuries.

Chelsea defender Millie Bright, who captained England to the World Cup final in 2023, announced her retirement in October having withdrawn from the Euros.

There was a serious blow for Arsenal forward Michelle Agyemang – one of England’s key players in Switzerland – as she was carried off on a stretcher after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during the win over Australia.

But it’s been a successful time for the other Lionesses in Arsenal’s squad, including captain Williamson, who lifted the Champions Cup in February.

And Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was named the world’s best goalkeeper at the Ballon d’Or awards in September, as Wiegman picked up the best coach award.

Hampton also wrapped up the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award in November after being caught up in the fallout of Mary Earps’ autobiography, which was released earlier that month.

London City Lionesses have signed Denmark midfielder Malou Marcetto on a two-and-a-half year deal from Madrid CFF.

The 22-year-old has represented her country at youth level, including 10 appearances for the under-23s, and has been a target for the Women’s Super League side for a while.

“The facilities are great and the people I’ve met have made me feel really welcome,” said Marcetto.

“England [is] the biggest football country, in my opinion. Women’s football is growing here and it’s going to be a very competitive league to play in.

“I’m really excited to be here and get started. In terms of my playing style, as a midfielder, I like to be creative and also work hard.”

It is believed London City originally hoped to bring her in when her contract expired in the summer, but have been able to finalise a deal in this window for a small fee.

The club, which is currently sixth in the WSL standings, believes Marcetto brings high potential to the squad and provides added first-team competition.