Earps Returns to Face Former Club Manchester United in First Match, Says It Is 'Like a Moth to a Flame'

Former England goalkeeper Mary Earps has returned to the Women's Super League after spending two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, joining London City Lionesses. In the opening match of the new WSL season, she will travel with the team to face former club Manchester United, where she spent five years.

Earps said she missed the comforts of home during her two years away, especially Percy Pig sweets, and was therefore excited about returning.

"Absence makes the heart grow fonder."

After leaving Manchester United, Earps spent two years at Paris Saint-Germain, an experience that allowed her to live away from the spotlight in England. She admitted that experiencing the "Paris lifestyle" was indeed "nice", but conversations with London City Lionesses convinced her to return to England.

"I am very, very happy to be home," Earps said. "I missed the comforts of England, I missed my friends and family, and I missed Percy Pig sweets too!"

"From a football perspective, I missed English football culture — the feeling of walking into a stadium, the electricity of the crowd, and the atmosphere around women's football in this country. I knew I might miss these things after leaving, so that is why I am so excited to be back. Absence makes the heart grow fonder."

"I left to push myself out of my comfort zone and gain different football and life experiences. It is something I will remember forever."

A 'moth to a flame' reunion with Manchester United

This will not be the first reunion between Earps and Manchester United this season. Last season, Paris Saint-Germain were drawn against Manchester United in the Champions League, and Earps received a warm welcome when she returned to Old Trafford. She said the moment was "significant" for her — her autobiography had previously detailed the reasons behind her withdrawal from the national team, a period that was turbulent for her.

Now, her first competitive match representing London City Lionesses could come against Manchester United. Earps reflected on the situation, saying: "Yes, it is like a moth to a flame."

"The club has changed a lot since I left. Although some people have moved on as football and life have progressed, there will still be some familiar faces, and the fans will not change — they are as passionate as ever."

The future of London City Lionesses

Although Earps said she does not yet know whether she will be London City Lionesses' starting goalkeeper, she added that the competition for the position excites her.