Earps eyes Man Utd reunion as WSL comeback nears
September 4, 2026 07:45
Mary Earps has returned to the Women's Super League as goalkeeper for London City Lionesses and could make her first appearance for the club in Friday’s season opener, which is scheduled for 19:00 BST. The match may pit her against her former side, Manchester United, where she spent five seasons and became a prominent England international.
Earps spent the last two years at Paris Saint-Germain before her move back to England. Her return to the WSL carries plenty of attention because of her past success at United, her international pedigree and the profile she built while playing in France.
KEY CONTEXT
- Earps made more than 100 appearances over five seasons with Manchester United, during which she won an FA Cup and established herself as England’s first-choice goalkeeper.
- She played a central role in England’s Euro 2022 triumph and in the team’s run to the 2023 World Cup final while still a United player.
- After leaving United to pursue Champions League football and a change of environment, Earps spent two seasons at PSG and made 22 appearances in France’s top flight last season.
- She has been widely recognised individually, including twice being named Fifa’s goalkeeper of the year and receiving BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2023.
- Last November her book generated significant media attention; as recently as last season she was applauded when facing United with PSG and a mural of her still stands outside Old Trafford.
WHY IT MATTERS
Earps’ return to England restores a high-profile figure to the domestic game and raises the stakes for London City Lionesses’ opening fixtures. Her experience at club and international level — coupled with the awards and recognition she has won — makes her signing notable for the WSL’s competitiveness and visibility. A potential early meeting with Manchester United adds a narrative edge to the season opener and will draw extra interest to both the fixture and Earps’ reintroduction to English crowds.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Earps will start in Friday’s opener against Manchester United — the source describes this as a possible debut rather than a confirmed selection.