Just a year ago, England and Barcelona goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck faced an unthinkable reality—at just 24 years old, she suffered a stroke that threatened not only her football career but also her vision and independence.
In an exclusive conversation with BBC Sport, Roebuck recalls the terrifying moment she received the diagnosis: “I should have lost my vision. Most people with my type of stroke do. It’s a miracle that didn’t happen.”
The former Manchester City shot-stopper had just signed a pre-contract with European champions Barcelona when her world turned upside down. What followed was a grueling road to recovery, filled with fear, uncertainty, and a desperate search for answers.
‘I Knew Something Wasn’t Right’
After a frustrating spell at City, Roebuck began experiencing dizziness, fatigue, and vision issues. Initially dismissed as a concussion from a routine training incident, she pushed for further tests—only to receive the life-altering news.
“I was panicked but never expected it to be a stroke,” she admits. The blow came just weeks after sealing her dream move to Barça, leaving her future hanging in the balance.
A Lonely Battle—But Not Alone
Roebuck initially kept her condition private but later found solace in conversations with NFL legend Tedy Bruschi and ex-Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Čech, both of whom had battled severe medical setbacks in their careers.
“Petr really got it—he knew exactly what I was going through. He’s been an incredible support, and now he’s even come to watch me train at Barcelona,” she shares.
Despite feeling isolated at Manchester City, where she never played again following her diagnosis, Roebuck found a new home in Spain. She made her long-awaited debut for Barça in December—303 days after her stroke.
Life Beyond Football
Now 25, Roebuck has a renewed perspective on life. While still battling fatigue, she’s embracing the future—both on and off the pitch.
“I used to think football was everything, but now I appreciate life so much more,” she reflects. She’s also found a new passion: coffee roasting, with hopes of one day opening her own café.
As for the England national team, she knows nothing is guaranteed. “I’ll keep working to be the best goalkeeper I can be. Whether I get back in or not, I’m just grateful to be here.”
Ellie Roebuck’s story isn’t just about football—it’s about resilience, second chances, and redefining success on her own terms.
