Mary Earps is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. She has played a crucial role in England’s success and has become a fan favorite. Her journey has not been easy. She has fought through challenges, setbacks, and doubts to reach the top.
From club struggles to international glory, Earps has shown resilience and determination. This blog explores her career, achievements, and impact on women’s football.
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Early Life and Football Beginnings
Mary Earps was born on March 7, 1993, in Nottingham, England. From a young age, she loved sports. But football became her true passion. She started playing in local boys' teams because girls' teams were rare at the time. That tough environment shaped her into the fearless goalkeeper she is today. Her talent stood out. She joined Leicester City’s youth academy and quickly developed into a promising young goalkeeper.Club Career: Climbing the Ranks
Earps' club career has been a journey of patience and perseverance. She has played for several teams, learning and improving along the way.Early Club Struggles
Her senior career began at Doncaster Rovers Belles. She then had short spells at Birmingham City, Bristol Academy, and Reading. While she performed well, she didn’t always get the recognition she deserved. Many times, she had to fight for a starting spot.Move to Wolfsburg
In 2018, she got her big break. German giants Wolfsburg signed her. However, playing time was limited. Wolfsburg had an established No. 1 goalkeeper. Earps found herself mostly on the bench. Although she struggled for minutes, she learned a lot. Training at one of Europe’s top clubs helped her improve.Manchester United: A Perfect Fit
In 2019, she returned to England. Manchester United signed her, and it changed everything. At United, she became the undisputed No. 1. She made crucial saves, commanded her defense, and became a leader. Her performances helped United rise in the Women’s Super League (WSL). By 2023, she won the WSL Golden Glove, keeping the most clean sheets that season.International Career: From Forgotten to First Choice
Mary Earps’ England journey is a story of resilience. She was often overlooked in her early years. She made her senior debut in 2017 but was rarely called up. By 2019, she had fallen out of favor completely. For two years, she thought her England career was over. She even considered quitting international football. But everything changed when Sarina Wiegman became England’s manager in 2021.Winning the No. 1 Spot
Wiegman saw something special in Earps. She made her England’s first-choice goalkeeper. That trust changed everything. Earps repaid that faith with outstanding performances. She became a key player for the Lionesses.Euro 2022: A Tournament to Remember
Euro 2022 was a defining moment for Earps. She played every minute of the tournament and was crucial in England’s historic victory.Key Moments
- ✔️ Kept four clean sheets in six games.
- ✔️ Made vital saves in the final against Germany.
- ✔️ Helped England lift their first major international trophy.
2023 Women’s World Cup: More Heroics
Earps carried her Euro 2022 form into the 2023 Women’s World Cup. She was England’s best player in the tournament. Despite injuries to key players, she helped England reach the final.Penalty Save in the Final
In the World Cup final against Spain, England trailed 1-0. In the 68th minute, Spain got a penalty. Many thought the game was over. But Earps had other plans. She dived to her left and saved Jennifer Hermoso’s penalty, keeping England alive. Even though England lost, Earps won the Golden Glove as the tournament’s best goalkeeper. Her World Cup performances cemented her status as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.Clint Dempsey: The Grit and Greatness of an American Soccer Icon
Playing Style: What Makes Earps Special?
Earps is more than just a shot-stopper. She has several strengths that make her elite.1. Shot-Stopping Ability
Her reflexes are incredible. She makes quick reaction saves that many goalkeepers wouldn’t reach.2. Command of the Box
She is vocal and organizes her defense well. Her ability to claim crosses and deal with high balls makes her reliable.3. Distribution
Modern goalkeepers need to be good with their feet. Earps has improved her passing and decision-making under pressure.4. Mental Toughness
Her journey has been full of challenges. But she never gives up. Her strong mentality sets her apart.5. Leadership and Passion
Earps is a natural leader. Her passion and energy inspire her teammates. She never hesitates to celebrate big moments or rally her defense.Records and Achievements
- ✔️ Euro 2022 Champion
- ✔️ 2023 World Cup Finalist
- ✔️ 2023 World Cup Golden Glove Winner
- ✔️ 2022 WSL Golden Glove Winner
- ✔️ Key player for Manchester United and England
Off the Pitch: A Fan Favorite
Mary Earps is not just loved for her goalkeeping. Her personality and connection with fans make her special. She is active on social media, engages with fans, and always shows gratitude. Her celebrations, humor, and down-to-earth attitude make her relatable. She isn’t just a great player—she’s a great person.Legacy and Impact on Women’s Football
Earps has played a huge role in the growth of women’s football.- ✔️ She has inspired young goalkeepers to dream big.
- ✔️ She has fought for better conditions for female players.
- ✔️ She has proven that hard work beats setbacks.
What’s Next for Mary Earps?
At 30 years old, Earps still has many years ahead.- ✔️ She will aim to help Manchester United win titles.
- ✔️ She will be a key player for England in Euro 2025.
- ✔️ She will continue to inspire and grow women’s football.
Conclusion
Mary Earps’ journey is an incredible story of perseverance. From being overlooked and doubted to becoming the best goalkeeper in the world, she has proven herself at every level. Her impact on the pitch is undeniable. But her influence off the pitch is just as important. She is a role model, a fighter, and a champion. With her talent, passion, and leadership, her best moments are still to come. The world will continue to watch and celebrate Mary Earps, England’s No. 1.Derby de la Liga MX: Chivas vs. Club América
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