Ellie Roebuck makes Barcelona debut in long-awaited return from stroke recovery | OneFootball

Ellie Roebuck played out a huge moment in her career on Saturday as she made her debut appearance for Barcelona. The 4-1 win over Real Betis also marked the England international’s incredible comeback 19 months after suffering a stroke.

The goalkeeper announced in an Instagram post after not playing for her ex-club, Manchester City, all season. Roebuck said: “I have suffered a left occipital infarct. Thankfully, there is no lasting damage to my brain function or vision. After specialist appointments, tests, and the support of the medical team at the club, I’m on the road to recovery. It has been a tough time. Life can throw unexpected challenges at you, and if this year has taught me anything, I’m strong and will give it all I’ve got for the thing I love most.”

The Lioness was part of the history-making team that won the Euro 2022 title at Wembley, though she did not play any minutes in the competition.

Roebuck made her official return to the pitch after a lengthy 19 months, though she was denied her clean sheet in the dying embers of the match. Yasmine Zouhir netted a 90th-minute goal as a consolation for Real Betis, who had been trialing 4-0 since the first half.

After her first appearance back on the pitch, Roebuck said: “I’m super happy to make my debut. Make sure you come and watch us against Manchester City. I appreciate your support.”

On social media after the match, she spoke about her goal always being to play the game she loved. Sometimes, it felt impossible, but playing for Barcelona was a dream. She moved to reflect on the journey and thank everyone who supported her along the way.

“Nothing will ever beat this feeling,” Roebuck said.

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Lionesses support floods in for Ellie Roebuck

Roebuck’s international teammates quickly expressed their appreciation on social media for this significant moment in the goalkeeper’s career.

Mary Earps, who represents the goalkeeper union, said on Instagram: “I’m so happy for you, my friend! It’s so deserved. Tough times don’t last, tough people do.”

Her ex-captain Steph Houghton joined in sharing her pride for Roebuck’s return. Meanwhile, current Man City captain Alex Greenwood said: “Things you love to see. Ellie Roebuck is back. Wow, it’s been a journey. I’m so proud of you. Enjoy your moment.”

Fellow Lioness and Barcelona star Keira Walsh has said she is pleased to share the pitch again with her ex-city teammate.

The support did not end there, either. Katie Zelem, Georgia Stanway and Lotte Wuben-Moy all reposted Roebuck’s Instagram post about her return to the beautiful game.

Embed from Getty Images

Barcolonas’s next match will be against Hammarby in the Champions League one Thursday, before a clash with Valencia in Liga F on Sunday.

Barca are currently top of the league, having won all 12 fixtures so far. Roebuck will face her ex-team, Manchester City, on December 18th, after losing 2-0 to the WSL side in a shocking event in early October.

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