Picture: United star receives one of the country’s top distinctions for her outstanding contributions

Manchester United star Ella Toone received an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) from Prince William at Windsor Castle today. Toone recognised Toone was acknowledged in the New Year Honours List for her key role in England winning back-to-back European Championship titles in 2022 and 2025. The United midfielder was in the starting XI for last summer’s final victory over Spain in Basel, a full three years after she’d scored against Germany at Wembley. Also honoured with MBEs were Toone’s England teammates Alex Greenwood, Keira Walsh and Georgia Stanway. It’s official: Meet Ella Toone MBE, Reds! 🥹🎖️ pic.twitter.com/5yvMqcYjQ1 — Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) May 19, 2026 What a moment! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/u98tgMVxfs — Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) May 19, 2026 England boss Sarina Wiegman was made a dame, while national team captain Leah Williamson was awarded a CBE, having previously received the OBE. Back in the England squad Even better for Toone, her return to the England squad was confirmed. She has not featured for the Lionesses since November due to an injury that caused her to miss half of the season for United. Toone revealed that she only learned of her England call-up moments before receiving her gong at Windsor Castle. The United academy graduate said, “We were sitting in the waiting room before going in and we quickly checked. Prince William asked if I was back fit and whether I’m on the next camp, so it was nice to be able to tell him there. I am doing well and I’ve come back feeling better and stronger than ever.” She continued, “It is so exciting. There is so much talent in the England squad now, with so many experienced players, players who’ve been to tournaments before, and loads of young, exciting talent coming through as well.” “I am obviously really looking forward to it, and hopefully I can go out there and represent England again.” Toone stressed the importance of being a role model to the younger generation. “I set up ET7 Academy to give girls a chance and an opportunity to play football, to make friends, to develop as people and players.” “I hope that one day we can have another Ella Toone, who maybe comes from Tyldesley, where I grew up. As Lionesses, we are role models, we have got to use our platforms as best we can to really grow the women’s game and to give all young girls and boys opportunities in football.” Toone also disclosed that her wedding with fiancé Joe Bunney will take place this summer in Cheshire. Featured image Matthias Hangst via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!