Arsenal have confirmed that their first-choice goalkeeper, Manuela “Manu” Zinsberger, has ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in a training session. The injury was sustained ahead of the club’s UEFA Women’s Champions League fixture against Benfica, and the club revealed she will undergo surgery in the coming days.
The Austrian international will miss the remainder of the 2025/26 season, according to the club’s medical update. Arsenal’s statement reads:
“Manuela sustained the injury during a training session while preparing for our trip to face Benfica … she will undergo surgery in due course and is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the 2025/26 season. Manuela is being closely supported by our medical team … everyone at Arsenal looks forward to seeing her return to action as soon as possible.”
This blow comes at a challenging time for the squad, as head coach Renée Slegers is already managing a mounting list of absences. Defender Anneke Borbe is sidelined with illness, winger Katie Reid is recovering from a groin issue, and both Emily Fox and Steph Catley picked up knocks during Arsenal’s recent match against Benfica. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar will now not join her national team due to “fitness issues,” further stretching Arsenal’s depth in the goalkeeping ranks.
For Zinsberger, this is a major setback. She has been a steady presence between the sticks in recent seasons, known for her shot-stopping, composure, and leadership. Arsenal fans and teammates alike will be hoping for a smooth recovery process and a full return to action in due course.
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