England and Lionesses legend Ellen White has backed teen sensation Michelle Agyemang to play a leading role in the nation's bid for World Cup glory in 2027
Charlie Bayliss
13:10, 27 Aug 2025Updated 13:11, 27 Aug 2025
Lionesses' icon Ellen White has tipped Michelle Agyemang as the potential key to securing World Cup victory for England. Fresh from their European triumph, the Lionesses are now eyeing the global title in Brazil, following their victory over Spain at the Euros last month.
White, who holds the record as England's highest goal scorer with 50 goals, singled out 19 year old sensation Agyemang as a player who could turn this dream into reality. Agyemang, currently on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion WFC from Arsenal, netted twice in her four appearances at the Euros. Her crucial last-minute equalisers in both the quarter and semi-finals earned her the title of young player of the tournament.
England's forward #17 Michelle Agyemang celebrates after she scored her team's second goal during the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 quarter-final football match between Sweden and England
Agyemang scored England's second goal during the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 quarter-final football match against Sweden(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
"I think she's got a really amazing opportunity," said White. "She was phenomenal at the Euros and I think just having a couple more years to really hone her talent, it will put us in great stead."
"She's got an amazing stature, amazing presence, amazing technical ability and it's just about honing her talent."
White added: "I think it's just giving her time and giving her experience of playing domestic football in the WSL and giving her more experience in the international stage. "
Ellen White, a key player in England's triumphant 2022 European Championship team, is now retired and focusing on nurturing young talent in the sport.
Last weekend, she attended the Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown tournament, a competition that pits men and women against each other to find the UK's top footballer.
The winners from both categories then have the chance to showcase their skills at the world final in Miami, where football legend Lionel Messi will be present.
The Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown tournament arrived in the capital last weekend
The Más+ by Messi 1v1 World Crown tournament arrived in the capital last weekend(Image: PinPep)
Ellen said: “So many of us were out in cage football, on the streets, in local communities, playing football. And I feel like that 1v1 style is so exciting and intense. It brings people together.
“When you see someone on a football pitch for 11-a-side and you see those wingers or whoever, and they're taking on someone 1v1, it gets you up off your seat.”
Ellen White has tipped her teammate Lauren Hemp as someone who could successfully transition from traditional 11-a-side football to the unique 1v1 format. However, she doesn't see herself excelling in this new style of play.
"I don't think 1v1 was quite my style. I was more running and throwing myself about. I might have been better at defending if I'm being perfectly honest."
She also suggested that established leagues like the WSL and Premier League could take a leaf out of emerging sports such as the 1v1 tournament.
Article continues below
"It's thinking outside the box and considering how we can give as many opportunities to our local community, for whoever to get into sport, both male and female.
"I feel like this kind of 1v1 game is amazing. It's fast-paced, exciting, it's intense. I think that's really exciting and a sense of community and togetherness as well."