‘People think I’ve vanished’: Mary Earps on signing for London City and feeling forgotten
As Mary Earps stepped off the boat onto the bustling docks of the Thames, surrounded by the iconic landmarks of Tower Bridge and the London Eye, it was clear that the former England goalkeeper was back in her element. The glamourous photoshoot, a far cry from the makeshift unveiling at Wolfsburg eight years ago, was a testament to the transformation that the women’s game has undergone since Earps first burst onto the scene.
The 33-year-old, who has signed a two-year contract with London City Lionesses, is no stranger to the Women’s Super League, having spent five years at Manchester United and now joining her sixth WSL side. For Earps, the decision to return to England was not taken lightly, and she was drawn to London City’s bold ambitions and commitment to building a world-class training centre at Cobdown Park in Ditton.
“I was really impressed by the energy and effort that the club put into the photoshoot,” Earps says, her excitement palpable. “It was clear that they were serious about making a statement and showcasing their ambitions. As someone who’s been in the game for a while, it’s not often that you see a club take such a bold approach. It was like a spark had been lit, and I was eager to be a part of it.”
Earps’ move from Paris Saint-Germain, where she spent two years, was a deliberate choice to return to the league where she has spent most of her career. Despite the allure of the French capital, Earps felt a strong pull to come back to England, where she could play in front of passionate fans and be a part of the English football culture.
“Every contract now, with where I’m at in my career, it’s just about maxing out with whatever I’ve got left in the tank,” Earps explains. “I wanted to do that at home, where I could give my all and leave everything on the pitch. It felt like being back home in the WSL, scrapping it out every week, playing in front of the fans, being in those incredible English stadiums – it was like a breath of fresh air.”
The video call with London City’s owner, Michele Kang, was a pivotal moment in Earps’ decision-making process. Kang’s energy and enthusiasm for women’s football, as well as her commitment to building a successful team, left a lasting impression on Earps.
“She showed a real energy for me to join, and I was impressed by her commitment to women’s football,” Earps says. “She never made me feel like she had to leave, and she was really open and honest about the club’s plans. I really respect her and the way she’s approaching the game.”
For Earps, the independently run London City Lionesses offer a unique opportunity to be part of a team that is driven by a shared vision and values. As a woman-owned football club, London City is free to pursue its ambitions without the constraints of a larger organization.
“I was really excited by the fact that it’s a woman-owned football club, independent, and can really go about its business in its own way,” Earps says. “That’s something that really aligns with my own values and ambitions, and I feel like I can contribute to the team’s success.”
Earps’ time at Paris Saint-Germain was marked by a sense of adventure and a willingness to take on a new challenge. While the facilities were the best she’s ever trained at, and the city was incredible, Earps acknowledges that the league was not as competitive as she had hoped.
“I think a lot of people don’t take those jumps in life, and I’m just one of those people who’d rather give it a go and look back with no regrets,” Earps says. “I loved it, the city especially was incredible, but I’m excited to be back in the WSL, where I can really make a difference and contribute to the team’s success.”
As Earps prepares to take on her new challenge with London City, she is aware that her reputation may have preceded her. Some may see her as a veteran goalkeeper, no longer at the peak of her powers. But Earps is determined to prove them wrong.
“I’ll let the people decide, because I feel like for two years I know people think like I’ve vanished off the face of the earth,” Earps says with a smile. “I’m still here, I’m still alive and kicking, and I’m excited to show the world what I can do.”
For London City Lionesses, the signing of Mary Earps is a significant coup, and the team will be hoping that her fame can help build a fanbase off the pitch as well as succeed on it. As Earps prepares to take on her new challenge, one thing is clear: she is back, and she is ready to make a statement.
The Impact of Earps’ Signing
Earps’ signing has sent shockwaves through the women’s football community, with many praising the 33-year-old goalkeeper’s commitment to the sport and her willingness to take on a new challenge. As one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the WSL, Earps brings a level of expertise and leadership that will be invaluable to London City.
“The signing of Mary Earps is a huge coup for London City,” says a spokesperson for the club. “She is an experienced and accomplished goalkeeper who will bring a level of quality to our team that will be hard to match. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to seeing her in action.”
Earps’ signing has also sparked renewed interest in women’s football, with many fans taking to social media to express their excitement and enthusiasm for the new season. As the WSL continues to grow and develop, the signing of players like Earps will be crucial in helping to drive the sport forward.
The Future of Women’s Football
As women’s football continues to grow and develop, the signing of players like Mary Earps will be crucial in helping to drive the sport forward. With the WSL set to expand to 14 teams next season, the competition is likely to be fierce, and teams will need to be at the top of their game to succeed.
For Earps, the future is bright, and she is excited to be a part of it. As one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the WSL, she is aware of the responsibility that comes with being a role model, and she is determined to use her platform to help promote the sport and inspire a new generation of players.
“I’m excited to be a part of this new chapter in women’s football,” Earps says. “I’m proud to be a role model and to be able to inspire young players to take up the sport. I know that I’ve worked hard to get to where I am today, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”