Tere Abelleira, the talented Spanish midfielder playing for Real Madrid, faces the most challenging moment of her career after suffering a significant knee injury during training. The 25-year-old was preparing for a match against England when she sustained tears to her anterior cruciate ligament and her left knee's external meniscus. This unfortunate incident occurred on February 26, 2025, just hours before the team’s scheduled game at Wembley Stadium.
Abelleira, who has been with Real Madrid since 2020 after transferring from Deportivo de La Coruña, appeared at the stadium on crutches and with her knee bandaged, raising alarm bells about the severity of her condition. The initial concerns were confirmed the following day when medical tests conducted by Real Madrid's medical staff revealed the extent of the injury. "She has been diagnosed with a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament and the external meniscus of the left knee. Our player will undergo surgery in the coming days," the club announced following the diagnosis.
This injury is not just a setback for the player; it significantly impacts both her club and the national team. Abelleira is expected to be out for approximately ten months, which means she will miss the remainder of the current season with Real Madrid, the Copa del Rey semifinals, and the UEFA Women's Champions League quarterfinals. More poignantly, she will also be absent from the Euro 2025, which is set to take place in Switzerland this summer.
The emotional toll of the injury was palpable as teammates and coaches processed the news. Cata Coll, the Spanish National Team goalkeeper, remarked, "She is an important player both on and off the pitch," underscoring Abelleira's influential role within the team. Her absence leaves both club and national team facing considerable adjustments, particularly as Spain prepares to defend their title as the reigning world champions.
Details of the injury indicate it was the result of a bad movement during training at Wembley, which left her with no choice but to leave the session. Her coach, Alberto Toril, now faces the challenge of reorganizing his team structure to compensate for her significant absence. During the current season, Abelleira had participated in 23 matches, scoring one goal and providing three assists, marking her as a key player for the Madrid side.
Her absence is compounded by the fact the team has also lost other significant players this season, including Rocío Gálvez and Melanie Leupolz, both of whom suffered injuries earlier. Real Madrid is now left to rely on its remaining squad members. The midfield positions may be filled by players like Sandie Toletti and Filippa Angeldahl as the team navigates the final stages of the league season.
Looking forward, the Spanish National Team must adapt to Abelleira's absence as they prepare for important clashes in the Nations League. The absence of such talent will undoubtedly alter their tactical plans. Coach Montse Tomé expressed confidence in the remaining players, hinting at future selections and the need for adaptations. Players like Laia Aleixandri may step up, considering their previous experience and contributions to the squad.
The injury also casts shadows over the future for Abelleira, who was seen as one of the stars of women's football following her contributions to Spain's recent achievements. This incident marks the first severe injury of her career, sparking concerns not only for her rehabilitation process but also for the broader impact on women's football, where injuries can sideline rising talents at pivotal moments.
While Abelleira must focus on her recovery, the support from fans, teammates, and the broader football community remains unwavering. Her resilience and dedication to the sport signal hope for her eventual return. Spain's next matches will serve as both tests and opportunities for others to rise to the challenge left by her absence.
For now, as Abelleira prepares for surgery, the football world watches, hopeful for her rehabilitation and eager to see her back on the pitch, sporting the colors of Real Madrid and Spain once again.