- Get in here, Cityzens: We’ve got some tough news on the women’s side of things. England and Man City forward Lauren Hemp (24) is officially out of the upcoming friendly match against the U.S. after undergoing knee surgery. Ouch.
Man City confirmed the surgery was a success, but didn’t spill the beans on what exactly went wrong with her knee or how long she’ll be out. Classic cryptic City, right?
But here’s the real kicker: Hemp won’t be in the squad for the England-US showdown at Wembley on November 30, or the following match against Switzerland (the 2025 European Championship host) a few days later. So, no Lauren Hemp magic to light up the pitch. Sad.
Recall: Hemp wasn’t around when City lost to Chelsea 2-0 over the weekend, a game that cost them their lead in the league. And things don’t get any easier from here… Man City’s got three Women’s Champions League games coming up in the next month, including a huge clash against reigning champs Barcelona on December 18.
Don’t forget, City beat Barca 2-0 in October, and they’re currently leading their group with three wins from three.
So, what now for City? How will they cope without their star forward? Can they hold their ground in the WSL and Champions League without her? The pressure is on, but you know what they say… next woman up.
Well… Let’s hope Hemp’s recovery is speedy, and she’s back doing what she does best at City because let’s face it: She’s needed, especially for the tough upcoming game lineups.
Sources: Man City official statement on Lauren Hemp’s surgery.
