Former England international footballer Karen Carney is set to showcase her talents in the popular dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing. The announcement, made in August, marks a new chapter for the 38-year-old sports pundit, who referred to her participation as “a dream come true.”
Karen Carney: A Sports Legend
Carney, known for her impressive playing career, is regarded as one of the most accomplished players in women’s football. She represented top clubs such as Chelsea, Arsenal, Birmingham City, and the England national team, known as the Lionesses. With 144 caps under her belt, she is England’s third-most capped player in history.
Career Highlights
- Competed in four World Cups and four European Championships.
- Represented Team GB at the 2012 London Olympics.
- Awarded an MBE in 2017 and an OBE in 2024 for services to football.
- Inducted into Birmingham City’s Hall of Fame in 2015 and the English Football Hall of Fame in 2021.
Carney started her football journey at Birmingham City Ladies at the age of 11. She made her first-team debut in the FA Women’s Premier League National Division at just 14. In 2006, she made her England debut while securing the FA National Young Player of the Year Award in both 2005 and 2006.
Her club achievements include a successful stint at Arsenal in 2006, where she won four major titles in one season. These victories included the FA Women’s Premier League and the UEFA Women’s Cup. After a brief period with the Chicago Red Stars, she returned to Birmingham City before making a significant impact at Chelsea.
Challenges in Her Career
Despite her success, Carney faced challenges, including harassment during her time at Chelsea. After scoring a pivotal penalty in the 2018 Women’s Champions League, she received sexist abuse online. The Football Association condemned the attacks, highlighting the unacceptable nature of such behavior.
Life After Football
Retiring in 2019, Carney has since transitioned into sports media. She serves as a lead pundit for both men’s and women’s football on ITV and TNT, and she contributes written content to The Guardian and BBC Sport. Additionally, she co-hosts the Long Story Short podcast with fellow former player Jill Scott.
Looking Forward
As Carney embarks on her journey with Strictly Come Dancing, fans are eager to see how she transitions from the football field to the dance floor. Her enthusiasm and passion for both sports and dance underscore her multifaceted talents, promising an exciting experience for viewers and her fellow competitors alike.
