Goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck Describes Post-Stroke Return to Play as “a Dream”

England goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck expressed that her return to competitive play, after nearly a year sidelined due to a stroke, felt like “a dream.” Roebuck previously secured three FA Cups and three League Cups during her tenure at Manchester City. The 25-year-old athlete disclosed in March that she had experienced a “left occipital infarct” in the previous year, though medical assessments confirmed no permanent harm to her brain or eyesight. Roebuck, whose contract with Manchester City concluded in June before her transfer to Barcelona, marked her first appearance for the club in Saturday’s 4-1 victory against Real Betis. Following the match, she shared on Instagram, external: “303 days later. The goal was always to play the game I love again.” She continued, stating: “At times it felt impossible but to do it for Barcelona is a dream.” Roebuck added: “It’s been a journey. Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. Nothing will ever beat this feeling.” Roebuck accumulated over 100 appearances for City and holds 11 caps for England. She was also a member of England’s squad that triumphed at Euro 2022. Barcelona currently leads the Primera Division, having secured 12 victories from 12 matches this season. The club, which has won the Champions League for the last three consecutive seasons, is scheduled to play Swedish team Hammarby in the group stage on Thursday.