In unfortunate news, Manchester City midfielder Jill Roord has suffered a rupture to her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), according to confirmation from the Women's Super League (WSL) club on Saturday. Roord sustained the injury during Manchester City's Continental Tyres League Cup victory over Manchester United on Wednesday.
The 26-year-old Dutch international joined Manchester City from Wolfsburg in July 2023, becoming the club's record signing in a £300,000 ($381,269) deal. Roord has made a positive impact since her arrival, contributing two goals and two assists for the club this season. However, her injury now puts her participation for the remainder of the campaign into question.
The WSL club released a statement, stating that Roord will receive ongoing care from City's medical team and will commence her rehabilitation. They also expressed their well wishes for her full and speedy recovery. The extent of Roord's absence from the team remains uncertain, as Manchester City has not disclosed a specific return date for the midfielder.
This unfortunate incident adds Roord's name to the growing list of prominent female footballers who have recently suffered serious knee injuries. England captain Leah Williamson and Chelsea forward Sam Kerr are among those who have also faced ACL injuries. In fact, a report from the global football players union FIFPRO indicates that women's professional players are experiencing an increase in injuries, including ACL tears, due to factors such as increased workload, travel, and insufficient rest.
The injury to Roord serves as a reminder of the physical toll that professional athletes endure in their pursuit of success. It highlights the importance of proper conditioning, support from medical staff, and maintaining a safe and balanced training environment. As fans, we can only hope that Jill Roord's rehabilitation progresses well, and she makes a successful return to the pitch in the future.
In the meantime, Manchester City will have to adapt and find alternative solutions in Roord's absence. The team will undoubtedly miss her contributions on the field but will rally together to face upcoming challenges. The focus now shifts towards supporting Roord throughout her rehabilitation journey and ensuring her safe and complete recovery.
