On March 25, 2026, Manchester United Women will make history as they face Bayern Munich in the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals at the Theatre of Dreams. This marks the first time the United Women have reached this stage in the competition, raising the stakes for both teams.
However, the match comes with significant challenges for United. Star player Ella Toone is set to miss the game due to injury, leaving a notable gap in the squad. Coach Marc Skinner confirmed, “We wouldn’t risk her. She was fully on board with the plan.”
In addition to Toone, Leah Galton has been sidelined since December with a back issue, while Anna Sandberg has been out for six weeks due to a knee injury. The absences of Dominique Janssen and Ellen Wangerheim further deplete the squad, as both missed the recent match against Everton and this crucial clash.
Despite these setbacks, United will rely on the remaining players. Currently, only four senior outfield players are available on the bench, creating a challenging situation for the team.
On the other side, Bayern Munich’s Momoko Tanikawa has seen limited action, only coming off the bench in their recent match. This could indicate a tactical approach from Bayern as they prepare to face a weakened United side.
In a recent match, Hinata Miyazawa played a full 90 minutes in Japan’s Asian Cup final, showcasing her stamina and readiness for the upcoming challenge against Bayern.
The significance of this match extends beyond the pitch. For Manchester United Women, reaching the quarter-finals is a landmark achievement, reflecting their growth in European competition.
As the teams prepare to clash, the absence of key players for United raises questions about their ability to compete at this level. The outcome could have lasting implications for the team’s confidence and future in the tournament.
With the match just around the corner, all eyes will be on the Theatre of Dreams as Manchester United Women aim to make a statement against Bayern Munich.
