As the clock ticks down to the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-final on March 25, 2026, the atmosphere at the Theatre of Dreams is electric. This match marks a significant milestone for Manchester United Women, as it is their first-ever fixture in the last eight of this prestigious European competition.
However, the excitement is tempered by the reality of injuries plaguing the squad. Ella Toone, a key player for United, is expected to miss the match due to injury. Head coach Marc Skinner confirmed, “We wouldn’t risk her. She was fully on board with the plan.” This absence is particularly felt as Toone is considered a headline absentee from an already depleted squad.
Leah Galton has also been sidelined since December with a back issue, while Anna Sandberg has been out for six weeks with a knee injury. Additionally, Dominique Janssen and Ellen Wangerheim missed the recent match against Everton and will not feature against Bayern due to their respective injuries.
Despite these setbacks, there is some hope. Hinata Miyazawa, who played a full 90 minutes in Japan’s Asian Cup final just before this crucial match, could provide a spark for the team. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich’s Momoko Tanikawa has seen limited action, only being used from the bench in their last match.
Currently, Manchester United has only four senior outfield players available on the bench, which puts additional pressure on the starting eleven. The team has traveled over 10,000 miles from Sydney to the UK, reflecting the global nature of women’s football and the growing interest in the sport.
As the teams prepare to clash, the stakes are high. This match not only represents a chance for Manchester United to make history but also highlights the challenges faced by women’s teams in maintaining competitive squads amid injuries. The outcome will be crucial for both clubs as they aim to advance further in the tournament.
In this pivotal moment, the resilience of Manchester United Women will be tested against a formidable Bayern Munich side. Fans and players alike are eager to see how this historic encounter unfolds.
