Wiegman Drops Toone and Kelly from Lionesses Squad, Citing Performance Levels

Sarina Wiegman, head coach of the Lionesses, has stated that Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly were not performing at the expected level, leading to their exclusion from the squad for the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup qualifiers. Both players have been integral to Wiegman's team since she took charge in 2020, making their absence a notable development for supporters.

Kelly has seen limited game time this season, starting only one of Arsenal's four opening league matches. She has previously been dropped by Wiegman in February 2025 due to a lack of minutes at her former club, Manchester City. Toone has also experienced a challenging start to her season with Manchester United under new manager Eva Olid. She was notably absent from the starting lineup for their match against Arsenal two weeks prior, though she returned for their subsequent game against West Ham.

Wiegman addressed the decision, stating, "The main reason is that I think the levels weren't what I expect from them on the pitch. I've had a conversation with them. There's big competition going on too." When questioned about whether Toone's form might be affected by Manchester United's difficult start to the season, which included losses to London City Lionesses and Chelsea before a draw at Arsenal and a win against West Ham, Wiegman commented, "I don't know. Could be but I think there's some clubs that had a great start of the season, but I also look at how you execute your own football actions."

She added, "At times it's complicated, but we have to focus on what I can control." While there were reports of Kelly dealing with a hamstring injury, Wiegman maintained that the decision was based solely on "what I saw on the pitch" and that the focus remained on football.

In addition to Toone and Kelly, Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones has also been omitted. This selection signals a clear statement of intent from the Dutch coach ahead of the team's two-legged World Cup semi-final qualifier against Greece.

However, the squad does feature a first call-up for Chelsea's Lexi Potter, who has impressed in midfield alongside Keira Walsh. Potter has started three of Chelsea's four Women's Super League matches and delivered a standout performance in their 1-0 victory over Arsenal. The uncapped 18-year-old Erica Meg Parkinson has also been recalled after demonstrating strong form for NWSL side North Carolina Courage since her transfer in July.