Eni Aluko, a former England international, has sparked a debate regarding women's football punditry. She advocated for female ex-players with extensive experience to lead broadcast panels, suggesting men take more supporting roles. Aluko expressed frustration that male pundits, including Ian Wright and Nedum Onuoha, covered the Women's Euro 2025 final on BBC and ITV, while she and Fara Williams were not selected.
The former Lioness also claimed ITV prioritised Wright for a contract, alleging he did not act as a true ally by stepping aside for her. Presenter Laura Woods and ex-Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan criticised Aluko's position. Woods argued punditry should be merit-based, not gender-specific, warning that "gatekeeping" could hinder the sport's growth. Jordan questioned Aluko's broadcasting credentials during a heated talkSPORT exchange on February 10, 2026.
