Tullis-Joyce Suffers Injury: Impact on Manchester United and Her Recovery

Tullis-Joyce sustained an injury during Manchester United’s Women’s Super League match against Aston Villa on November 11. This incident occurred due to an accidental impact, necessitating immediate medical attention after the conclusion of the match. Although she did not suffer a concussion, subsequent medical evaluations revealed a fractured eye socket, an injury that typically requires several weeks of careful protection and rest to avoid further complications, according to reports from The Athletic.

When the Red Devils resumed Champions League play against Paris Saint-Germain last Wednesday, head coach Marc Skinner confirmed that she was unavailable due to irritation around the injured area. Prior to the match, she was observed on the pitch wearing sunglasses and engaging with her teammates, which underscored the fact that, while her injury is not career-threatening, sensitivity to light and potential physical contact must be managed diligently.

In Tullis-Joyce’s absence, Safia Middleton-Patel made her second senior appearance and performed admirably in United’s victory. Nevertheless, the coaching staff acknowledged that missing their first-choice goalkeeper is a significant setback. The Red Devils are optimistic that Tullis-Joyce might return before the winter break, contingent on medical clearance for full-contact training without risking further injury to the orbital bone.

This injury comes at a crucial juncture for Manchester United, who are striving to build momentum in both domestic and European competitions. The American goalkeeper has emerged as a vital player since the departure of Mary Earps in 2024, providing leadership and stability at the back while aiding United in developing a more composed playing style from defense.

With Tullis-Joyce sidelined, United must now depend on the less-experienced Middleton-Patel as their schedule intensifies, especially following a recent defeat in the Manchester derby and with a challenging Champions League group ongoing. The fracture disrupts the continuity of a defensive unit that had recently found its rhythm, thereby placing additional pressure on an already stretched squad.

On the international stage, Tullis-Joyce’s injury also interrupts her promising trajectory with the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT). She earned her first senior cap earlier this year and had positioned herself as a strong contender for future major tournaments.

Since joining Manchester United from OL Reign in September 2023, Tullis-Joyce quickly demonstrated her readiness for top European soccer. Her impressive first season showcased elite reflexes, a commanding presence in the box, and excellent distribution—qualities that align seamlessly with United’s evolving tactical identity and facilitated her ascent to the No. 1 goalkeeper position.

Prior to her injury, the 2025/26 campaign had seen Tullis-Joyce reach what many would argue is the best form of her career. Her anticipation, decision-making, and composure under pressure had significantly improved, establishing her as one of the league’s most reliable goalkeepers. Although her progress is temporarily halted, United remains confident that she will be integral to their success this season.

Recovery from a fractured eye socket typically spans several weeks, with rest and protective measures being crucial for safe healing before she can return to competitive play. United’s medical team will closely monitor swelling, bone stability, and ocular responsiveness before permitting her back into full training, while non-contact conditioning may commence sooner to help maintain her match fitness.

Skinner has emphasized that caution will guide all decisions regarding her recovery, as even a minor secondary impact could exacerbate the injury and prolong her return. The club intends to provide Middleton-Patel with additional opportunities while striving to remain competitive across multiple fronts without their undisputed first-choice goalkeeper.