Karen Carney’s true colours clear after financial admission – ‘I’ll never be bitter’

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Karen Carney insists that her modest earnings during her football career don't bother her, despite missing out on the recent international success of the Lionesses . The ex- Arsenal midfielder is currently showing off her dance moves on Strictly Come Dancing and is set to compete for the glitterball trophy in Saturday's final .

Prior to transitioning into football commentary, Carney had a lengthy career playing for both club and country. She earned 144 caps for England, netting 33 goals and securing third place at the 2015 Women's World Cup , as well as reaching the final of the 2009 UEFA Women's Championship.

While she won three Cyprus Cups and one SheBelieves trophy with the Lionesses, most of her silverware came from her club career. With three league titles at Arsenal and numerous domestic cup victories in north London and at Chelsea , Carney had an impressive resume.

However, financial rewards didn't come as readily as silverware did. Despite this, Carney harbours no resentment about not becoming a rich retired footballer.

In a 2019 interview with The Times , the now 38-year-old expressed satisfaction with her career achievements. Carney said: "I never had any expectations.

"When I was 11, I just wanted to play for England. I didn't know when it would happen, how it would happen. I picked that dream and I wanted that dream.

"I am who I am. I'm from Birmingham. My mum works at Sainsbury's . My dad is a firefighter. We keep it real. We know who we are. I haven't made a lot of money but I'm equally comfortable.

"I have food, clothes on my back and my family. I'll never be bitter. I don't need a Bentley. I don't need a Rolex. I've lived my dream, I've got my family and that's all I need."

Speaking about her impact on the younger Lionesses, Carney added: "I just aim to play as if it was five-a-side as an 11-year-old kid. That's how I see it because that's how it is.

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"That's what I try to tell the youngsters. 'It's your dream - don't fear it.' I don't say what I feel - I say what was said to me because my senior professionals were amazing."

Most of Carney's financial success has come after her football career, with her taking on various broadcasting roles with the likes of TNT Sports and ITV .

The former Arsenal player provides coverage for several major tournaments, including the Premier League , UEFA Champions League , and international competitions like the World Cup and Euros.

Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.