King Charles has backtracked on a controversial social media post after sparking outrage over an England star. The monarch previously faced criticism for a message about the England football team that omitted a key player.
Michelle Agyemang Awarded MBE
Michelle Agyemang has been awarded an MBE less than a year after being left out of a congratulatory social media post from the Royal Family. King Charles had praised the Lionesses for reaching the Euro 2025 final, but Agyemang was not among the 19 images displayed underneath the King’s message.
The incident occurred after Sarina Wiegman’s side advanced to the final in dramatic fashion, with Agyemang playing a key role. The defending European Champions were on the verge of losing to Italy before the teenage star equalised for England in the 96th minute, sending the tie to extra time where Chloe Kelly sealed victory late on. Agyemang had also scored a crucial equaliser in the previous round against Sweden.
However, the Arsenal starlet was controversially not included in the photos beneath the King’s celebratory message upon reaching the final, prompting anger from fans.
Fan Outrage on Social Media
One social media user on X replied at the time: “Where is Michelle? I think you need to update your photo.” A second wrote: “Uhm I'm sorry you forgot someone???”, alongside a picture of Agyemang. A third asked: “Following their semi-final success… where’s Michelle Agyemang?”
A fourth posted: “Your royal highness with all due respect where is Agyemang?” A fifth social media user added: “Nice message but shame Michelle Agyemang isn't on the pic.” While another asked: “Why isn’t Michelle Agyemang in this picture?”
Royal Recognition at Last
Less than a year later, the Arsenal star’s contributions have been recognised by the Royal Family. She has received an MBE for services to football after the Lionesses retained the Euros by defeating Spain on penalties. Agyemang, 20, was the youngest player in the England squad and won the Young Player of the Tournament award at Euro 2025.
In his message to the England team during the tournament, King Charles had said: “My wife and I join all our family in sending the mighty Lionesses our warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the World Cup, and in sharing our very best wishes for Sunday’s match. While your victory may have cost the magnificent Matildas their chance for the greatest prize in the game, both teams have been an inspiration on and off the pitch – and, for that, both nations are united in pride, admiration and respect.”
Agyemang’s Response
The social media incident did not seem to dampen Agyemang’s spirits. The England international explained that she felt part of a collective within the squad after thriving as a substitute.
“Everyone, no matter your role, the backroom staff and the staff behind the staff, everyone is valued in this team, and you can see it with the way we celebrated,” Agyemang told BBC Breakfast in August 2025. “We all did it together. To see it come off in the end shows how together we were, and I'm so grateful that we have such a good team around us, and it made it so special.”
