Bronze Stunned by Renard's Shock France Snub Ahead of Euro 2025 Clash
Manchester United and England star Lucy Bronze has expressed her surprise and disappointment at Wendie Renard's exclusion from the French squad for the upcoming Euro 2025 qualifiers. Renard, a legendary figure in women's football and a long-time captain of France, was a notable omission from the squad announced by coach Hervé Renard (no relation).
Speaking ahead of England's crucial Euro 2025 opener against Sweden, Bronze, who previously played alongside Renard at Olympique Lyonnais (OL), said she was 'shocked' by the decision. “I was shocked, to be honest,” Bronze stated. “Wendie is a world-class player, one of the best defenders we’ve ever seen. It’s a huge loss for France.”
The omission has sent ripples through the footballing world, with many questioning the reasoning behind the decision. Renard, known for her commanding presence in defence and goal-scoring ability from set pieces, has been a mainstay of the French national team for over a decade. Her absence undoubtedly weakens France's chances in the qualification campaign.
Bronze emphasized her desire to face the strongest possible French team, stating that Renard's presence would elevate the competitiveness of the fixture. “I wish she was playing on Saturday,” Bronze added. “It would be an incredible challenge to play against her. You want to test yourself against the best, and Wendie is definitely one of them. It would have made the game even better, to be honest.”
The reasons behind Renard’s exclusion remain somewhat unclear, with some speculation suggesting it's related to tactical choices or a desire to give younger players opportunities. However, Bronze’s comments highlight the significant impact of Renard’s absence on both France and the broader footballing landscape.
England faces a tough test against Sweden in their opening Euro 2025 qualifier. While the absence of Renard may seem like an advantage for the Lionesses, Bronze’s words underscore the respect and admiration she holds for the French legend and the quality she brings to the game. The focus now shifts to England’s preparation and their determination to secure a positive result, regardless of the opposition’s lineup.
This situation has sparked debate about player selection and the balance between rewarding experience and fostering emerging talent within national teams. It’s a complex issue with no easy answers, but Renard’s omission undeniably adds an intriguing subplot to the Euro 2025 qualification process.
