Manchester United's Gabby George Makes Strong Comeback After Second ACL Injury

The Manchester United defender Gabby George steadfastly maintained that she 'never questioned' her potential to recover from her second Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury within the same year. This injury occurred shortly after her transfer to Manchester United in October 2023, following a similar injury while at Everton in 2020...

"The injury challenges your mentality", George reflected on her recovery journey. "You will always recover physically but it is mentally where it challenges you". George's defiance on her recovery was strong, fuelled by her desire to play for her hometown club, and she made it clear that there was no doubt in her mind about her return to the game and Manchester United.

George has proved vital to the United defence that has achieved five clean sheets in eight Women's Super League matches this season. Her commendable performance on the field reintroduced her into England's squad for the first time since November 2022. "I always want to push on. I always want to improve", asserted George, expressing her drive and ambition to excel.

Realizing her dreams had to be temporarily shelved after she joined Manchester United and subsequently suffered the ACL injury, George admits the experience was more challenging the second time around. "The hardest part of an injury is understanding why", she reveals, highlighting the uncertainty that comes with physical injuries.

With two injuries behind her and a promising career ahead, George now stands as a symbol of grit and perseverance to other athletes facing similar challenges. She believes that those dealing with an ACL injury should focus on a positive mentality, trusting yourself and the physical recovery process.

To have missed FA Cup finals with both Everton and United because of ACL injuries, George has high hopes for playing at Wembley Stadium. Her next opportunity lies with the match against the USA, the Olympic champions, scheduled for this Saturday.