Sarina Wiegman has extended her contract for the next two tournaments until 2027. It makes her the Lionesses boss and one of the highest earners in women’s football alongside Emma Hayes, which makes sense as they have been the FIFA manager of the year, respectfully, over the last couple of years.
Emma Hayes claimed the extension was an intelligent move for England and admitted she would love to face them at the next World Cup in 2027.
Sarina Wiegman’s response
Sarina Wiegman has described herself as “always wanting more” and that England is “My home away from home” after an incredible two and a half years. She is happy to lead England through another three more trophy-filled years. Wiegman hopes to collect that World Cup trophy that has eluded her since her Netherlands days from coming second in two consecutive tournaments.
Embed from Getty ImagesSince joining England in September 2021, she has demanded the most from the players, staff and the FA, demanding the women’s team play on the same pitches as the men at St George’s Park. She should have access to the best facilities; she has brought the Lioness to high competition in less than a year with a home Euros and brought women’s international football to a top level.
Wiegman became the first non-English manager for the Lionesses. She spoke about her passion for the growth of the women’s game. “I worked for England, one of the most prominent federations worldwide. I was in a country where the game has developed so much and to the highest level of competition.”
Wiegman’s achievements so far
Her CV was already impressive with a home victory at the euros in 2017 with the Netherlands and a final at the 2019 World Cup. Somehow, she’s been able to replicate that winning success for the Lionesses.
Embed from Getty ImagesShe has said she cannot wait to start the Euro qualifiers, followed by the World Cup, as she relishes those opportunities. It is not just the manager who extended their contact. Her assistant and right-hand man, Arjan Veurink, is also here to stay. Wiegman spoke highly of the team and the colleagues that make her job fanatics and be a part of the special moments with fans worldwide.
Besides her major tournament silverware, she has won and retained the Arnold Clark Cup in 2022 and 2023. One of the inaugural maiden voyages of the Women’s Finalissima winning of penalties, which is uncommon for England teams ( or maybe just the men), continued her 30-game unbeaten streak with England. She is also the first female coach to win the FIFA Women’s Coach of the Year four times.
Excitement of the news
The CEO of the English FA Mark Bullingham said; “We are thrilled Sarina has agreed to extend her time ”. So are the fans who have supported her from day one.
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The Lionesses are set to be in action in February with two international fixtures overseas. With details of opposition and venue to be confirmed imminently.
EURO 2025 qualifying will begin in April, with the draw to determine the match schedule set for 5 March.
I am wondering what she can achieve next.
Can it come home?
Image Credit: Deposit Photos
