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England goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck has shared the deeply personal story of suffering a stroke at just 24, revealing that representing the Lionesses is the main reason she is still playing professional football today.
The Aston Villa shot-stopper, part of England’s Euro 2022-winning squad and the 2023 World Cup final team, opened up about the life-changing moment during the 2023-24 season while speaking ahead of her return to Sarina Wiegman’s squad.
What Happened in Ellie Roebuck’s Stroke Diagnosis
Roebuck suffered an infarct in her occipital lobe – a type of stroke caused by a blocked artery in the brain. It was later linked to a small hole in her heart, which required surgery and eventually closed.
The condition left her unable to play football or even train in the gym for around six months.
Coming off the back of major tournaments, the news hit hard.
“Getting that news was really tough,” Roebuck tol Indivisa. “You’re just thrust into the unknown… Would I be able to play football again? Would I not?”
The setback ruled her out for the rest of the season at Manchester City and forced a long physical and mental recovery.
Ellie Roebuck Stroke Recovery: The Mental Battle and Barcelona Move
After leaving Manchester City, Roebuck chased a dream by signing for Barcelona.
However, the move proved overwhelming as she battled ongoing doubts. “It was never-ending,” she admitted. “Even now there’s still moments where I think, ‘I don’t know if it’s worth it or not’… It was more of a mental thing than anything.”
She described the transition as “too much, too soon” and acknowledged it impacted her performance at the Champions League-winning club.
Now 26 and enjoying regular starts at Aston Villa, Roebuck has rebuilt step by step.
Why England Remains Ellie Roebuck’s Biggest Motivation
Throughout the darkest days, Roebuck still had dreams of playing for England again. “It’s why I play football, to be honest,” she explained. “Representing your country… it’s the reason I’m probably still playing football. It’s the most important thing in my football career. It’s top priority.”
That drive paid off with a full recall to the Lionesses squad for March 2026 matches against Ukraine and Iceland – her first since October 2023. Roebuck called the news a “shock” but ranked it among her greatest achievements.
“I’d still say getting back to this camp is one of my biggest achievements,” she said. “I know what it’s taken over the past two-and-a-half years.”
Roebuck insists she wants to be judged purely on performance, not her health journey.
Her story highlights resilience in women’s football and the power of national team pride.
