A Ray of Hope for Manchester City Women: Greenwood and Hemp Resume Training
Gareth Taylor, the head coach of Manchester City Women, has brought a glimmer of hope to the team and its supporters with the news that Alex Greenwood and Lauren Hemp have resumed on-pitch training. Both England internationals have been sidelined since the end of 2024 due to significant knee injuries. Greenwood, a 31-year-old center-back and the captain of City, suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) tear during a Champions League match against St Polten in December. Just weeks before Greenwood’s injury, Hemp, a 24-year-old forward, underwent surgery to address a knee issue of her own. The return of these two key players is a significant boost for a team that is currently fourth in the Women’s Super League (WSL).
The Road to Recovery: A Team Effort
Taylor’s update provides a glimpse into the strenuous recovery process both players have undergone. Greenwood and Hemp have been diligent in their rehabilitation, pushing the boundaries set by the medical team to ensure they can return to the pitch as soon as possible. Lauren Hemp has made slightly more progress, having returned to training on the field last week. Alex Greenwood, on the other hand, had her first on-pitch session just recently, albeit in isolation from the team. The coach emphasized that the players are determined to rejoin the squad and are actively working to accelerate their recoveries. “They’re so determined to be there for the team and pushing the medical department massively on what the expectations are and the data that’s been set,” Taylor said.
Impact on the Squad and the WSL
The return of Greenwood and Hemp is not just a personal victory for the players but also a significant boost for Manchester City Women. The team, which runs a relatively small squad, often relies on young academy players to fill the gaps left by injured or absent senior players. Having two top-tier players like Greenwood and Hemp back in the fold will provide a much-needed injection of experience and quality, enhancing the team’s depth and competitiveness. Taylor is optimistic about their potential return, stating, “Hopefully by the next window that comes we could look to see them (Hemp and Greenwood) back.” This optimism is shared by the players themselves, who are eager to return to action and contribute to the team’s success.
Determination and Team Spirit
The determination of Greenwood and Hemp is evident in their commitment to their recovery. Both players have been instrumental in their respective roles—Greenwood as a leader and defensive anchor, and Hemp as a dynamic forward. Their return not only strengthens the squad on the field but also boosts morale and team spirit. Taylor notes, “I’ve heard they’re [Lauren and Alex] talking it up a bit about making it sooner, which we’d love because it tells us they really care and want to be there for the team.” This level of dedication and team-first mentality is crucial in a high-stakes environment like the WSL, where every player’s contribution can make a difference.
Looking Ahead: The Next Match and Beyond
Manchester City Women, currently fourth in the WSL, are set to return to action on Sunday with a home game against Liverpool. The team will be eager to capitalize on their recent form and the potential return of key players. While Greenwood and Hemp are not expected to feature in the upcoming match, their progress in training is a promising sign for the future. The team’s depth and resilience have been tested throughout the season, and the return of these experienced players will be a valuable asset as they aim to climb the league table and challenge for top honors.
A Season of Challenges and Promise
The 2025 season has been one of challenges and promise for Manchester City Women. The injuries to Greenwood and Hemp have tested the team’s resilience and depth, but their recovery and potential return are a testament to the club’s commitment to excellence. As the team prepares for the next phase of the season, the focus remains on maintaining their high standards and continuing to push for success in both the WSL and the Champions League. The journey ahead is filled with uncertainty, but with the return of key players and a strong team spirit, Manchester City Women are well-positioned to achieve their goals.
