Former England international Izzy Christiansen has issued a stark warning about the current state of the Lionesses' programme, demanding significant changes to protect players and improve performance.
The ex-Everton and Manchester City midfielder, who earned 31 caps for her country, expressed serious concerns about the demanding international schedule and its impact on player welfare.
The International Break Conundrum
Christiansen didn't hold back when discussing the current structure, stating emphatically that there are "too many international breaks" in the women's game. Her comments come as England prepare for critical Euro 2025 qualifiers against Sweden and the Republic of Ireland.
"The players look tired," Christiansen observed, highlighting the physical and mental strain on today's Lionesses. Her insider perspective as a former professional adds weight to concerns that have been bubbling within the women's football community.
A Call for Structural Reform
The 32-year-old pundit argued for a complete overhaul of how international windows are managed. "There are too many international breaks and I think they need to be longer," she asserted, suggesting quality should trump quantity in national team gatherings.
Her solution? Fewer but more meaningful international periods that allow for proper preparation and recovery, rather than the current stop-start approach that disrupts club rhythm and exhausts players.
England's Crucial Summer Ahead
Christiansen's warnings arrive at a pivotal moment for Sarina Wiegman's squad. After their heartbreaking World Cup final defeat to Spain last year, the Lionesses face mounting pressure to secure qualification for Euro 2025.
The upcoming matches against Sweden and Ireland represent more than just qualification points - they're a test of whether the current system can deliver when it matters most.
Player Welfare Versus Performance Demands
At the heart of Christiansen's argument lies the fundamental tension between international ambitions and player protection. "The players look tired" serves as both an observation and an indictment of a system pushing athletes to their limits.
Her comments echo growing concerns across women's football about schedule congestion as the sport professionalises and commercial demands increase.
As England navigates this critical period, Christiansen's voice adds to a chorus calling for smarter scheduling and better player management. The success of the Lionesses' Euro 2025 campaign may depend on whether those in charge are listening.
