ITV release statement to make feelings clear on Eni Aluko and Ian Wright fallout (2025)

Ian Wright and Eni Aluko have worked alongside one another on ITV for years and the broadcaster has now picked a side amid their spat over punditry in women's football

ITV have backed Arsenal legend Ian Wright in their first public comment since he was criticised by Eni Aluko to spark a punditry storm. Former England Women star Aluko said that Wright 'should be aware of' how much punditry work he was doing in women's football and that it was important 'women are not being blocked from having a pathway into broadcasting in the women's game'.

Aluko, 38, later apologised via social media after her comments sparked backlash. Wright, widely regarded as a champion for the women's game, then posted a video to his followers on Instagram saying that he couldn't accept Aluko's apology.

The pair have worked together on numerous occasions, covering England Men's and Women's matches on ITV, who have now spoken out. "Ian's standing in the sport is beyond question," a spokesperson for the broadcaster told the Guardian.

"As one of the UK's most respected and much-loved footballers and sporting broadcasters, with a career spanning nearly four decades, Ian is an incredible advocate, ally and brilliant broadcaster of women’s football from a grassroots level as well as at the highest international competitions."

The row puts the spotlight on ITV's punditry line-up ahead of a big summer of international football. They have exclusive live rights to show England Men's one World Cup qualifier and one friendly match in June and will share the live rights with the BBC as the Lionesses bid to defend the Women's European Championship in Switzerland.

Wright is expected to be involved, as he was throughout the Euro qualifiers. The ex-Arsenal striker has been confirmed to be part of ITV's FA Cup final punditry line-up next month when his former club, Crystal Palace, face Manchester City at Wembley Stadium.

Aluko's apology read: "In my interview with Woman's Hour this week, I was trying to make a broader point about the limited opportunities for women in football - whether that's in coaching, broadcasting or commercial space - and the importance of creating more space for women to thrive on and off the pitch.

Do you agree with Eni Aluko or stand with Ian Wright? Have your say in the comments section.

"But it was wrong for Ian's name to be raised in that conversation, and for that I sincerely apologise. I've known and worked with Ian for many years and have nothing but love and respect for him."

In response, Wright said: "I've got to say I'm very disappointed by what Eni has said. he knows how I've helped her, supported her publicly. And I know the previous conversations she's had with me and my management. So, for me, I've seen your apology on social media, but I can't accept it. But I also want to move on from it."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.