Manchester City have confirmed that Japan international Risa Shimizu has suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, which will likely see her sidelined for a significant portion of the season. The 27-year-old right-back sustained the injury during Japan’s Olympic group-stage defeat against Spain in July and has since undergone successful surgery. Shimizu’s rehabilitation process will take place at Manchester City as she begins the road to recovery.
The injury comes as a significant setback for both the player and her new club. Shimizu joined Manchester City this summer on a three-year deal after turning down an offer to extend her stay at West Ham United. With the club preparing for their Women’s Super League (WSL) opener against Arsenal on September 22, City will now have to begin their campaign without one of their key summer signings.
A Major Setback for Shimizu
Risa Shimizu’s injury is a major blow to her career just as she was preparing to embark on a new chapter in English football. The Japanese defender has been a stalwart for her national team, earning over 60 caps, and was seen as a crucial addition to Manchester City’s squad for the upcoming WSL season. Her versatility, pace, and defensive acumen made her an ideal fit for manager Gareth Taylor’s tactical setup, with hopes that she would strengthen City’s backline after a season where the club fell short of major silverware.
Shimizu had impressed during her time at West Ham, where she was a key figure in their defense. Her decision to leave the London club in favor of Manchester City was seen as a significant move, with City looking to bolster their squad for both domestic and European competitions.
The Severity of ACL Injuries
An ACL injury is one of the most severe setbacks an athlete can face, particularly in football, where the knee is constantly under strain due to rapid changes in direction, jumps, and tackles. ACL injuries often require lengthy recovery periods, typically ranging from six to nine months, depending on the severity and the rehabilitation process. For Shimizu, this means she could miss the majority of the 2024 season, including a significant portion of Manchester City’s WSL campaign and their involvement in other competitions.
Manchester City’s medical team has confirmed that Shimizu’s surgery was successful, and the focus will now be on her rehabilitation. This will involve a combination of physiotherapy, strength training, and monitored recovery to ensure that she regains full fitness and can return to action at the highest level. Given the nature of the injury, the club will likely take a cautious approach to her return, ensuring that Shimizu does not rush back too soon and risk re-injury.
Impact on Manchester City’s Season
For Manchester City, Shimizu’s absence leaves a significant gap in their defense just as they prepare to launch their 2024 WSL campaign. Without Shimizu, City will need to rely on their squad depth to cover her position, with players like Esme Morgan and Kerstin Casparij expected to step up.
City’s manager Gareth Taylor will be forced to reshuffle his defensive plans, particularly with Shimizu being one of the more experienced players brought in to solidify the backline. Her experience in both international and club football made her a key figure for City’s hopes of contending for the WSL title and performing well in European competitions.
Shimizu’s Determination to Return Stronger
Despite the severity of the injury, Shimizu has shown a positive attitude toward her recovery. In a statement released through the club, she thanked Manchester City’s medical staff and expressed her determination to come back stronger. “It’s obviously a very difficult time for me right now, but I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from everyone at the club. I’ll be doing everything I can to recover and return to the pitch as soon as possible,” Shimizu said.
Her injury will also be a setback for Japan’s national team, as Shimizu has been a regular starter and a crucial part of their defense. With key tournaments on the horizon, including the 2024 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, Japan will be monitoring her recovery closely in hopes that she can return to full fitness in time for
Also Read:
