England Women head coach Sarina Wiegman has extended her contract until the end of the 2027 World Cup.
Wiegman’s assistant coach Arjan Veurink has also extended his deal, meaning the pair will be in charge for England’s next two major tournaments — including the 2025 Euros in Switzerland.
Wiegman, 54, was appointed England coach in September 2021, signing a four-year contract to replace Phil Neville and become the nation’s first non-British manager.
England won Wiegman’s first international tournament in charge, as they were crowned European champions on home soil in the summer of 2022.
At the World Cup last summer, England reached the final for the first time but were defeated 1-0 by Spain.
“I am so happy to have the chance to lead England through to 2027 after an incredible two and a half years,” Wiegman said. “Looking forward, we have unfinished business and I know we are capable of even more, although nothing will come easy.
“Our game is becoming so competitive at the top level. I relish that opportunity and can’t wait to start the Euro qualifiers, followed by the World Cup.
“I would like to thank Mark Bullingham, Debbie Hewitt and the FA Board for their support. I also must mention Arjan Veurink, I am delighted he has also extended his stay.
“It is a fantastic job working with these amazing players and alongside great colleagues. And, of course, it is very special to be able to play a part in giving our fans such wonderful moments.”
Much has been made of the pay discrepancy between Wiegman and England men’s head coach, Gareth Southgate, particularly in the context of Chelsea boss Emma Hayes being made the highest-paid manager in women’s football when she was appointed as USWNT coach in November.
“We don’t give the number out for anyone other than those we have to report to annually on our board,” FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said later on Tuesday when asked about Wiegman’s salary.
“We view Sarina as the number one coach in the world in the women’s game and we view that she’s paid accordingly. I don’t know what other people in other federations are paid but I think she is paid accordingly.”
Good news for England?
This is very welcome news. Wiegman is the key ingredient to what has been England’s most successful era. She has built a team of staff and players who want to work for her and implemented a long-term strategy that will give the Lionesses the best chance of consistent future success. She has created an environment of trust, freedom and stability.
Wiegman’s contract extension shows she feels there is more potential to come from this group and, in her words, has “unfinished business.” That hunger to win is evident.
The new deal also shows she is satisfied with the Football Association’s support. She would not have extended for a further two years had that not been the case.
Veurink’s extension is also extremely significant. Her assistant provides invaluable tactical insight and is very popular among the playing squad. A team under Wiegman without Veurink would not be nearly as effective.
(David Rogers/Getty Images)
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