Some clarity has emerged regarding Trinity Rodman’s foot injury, though it doesn’t alleviate concerns with the postseason approaching.
After tests on Thursday, it was confirmed that the 23-year-old Rodman has a Grade 1 MCL sprain sustained during Wednesday’s Concacaf W Champions Cup game. Washington Spirit head coach Adrian Gonzalez indicated Friday that her return date remains uncertain.
“The results we got are the best-case scenario,” Gonzalez remarked. “Injuries can be tricky. It’s not as serious as it could have been. She’s starting rehab now. It’s an MCL sprain, nothing too severe, but we need to monitor her progress and support her during this time.”
“We’re going to take this one day at a time. Every player’s recovery is unique,” he added.
There’s still a possibility that Rodman could return before the conclusion of the NWSL season.
Grade 1 MCL sprains are classified as the least severe type, yet they generally require up to three weeks of rehab before a reassessment. This timeframe could place Rodman’s return right around the start of the NWSL quarterfinals set for November 7.
Consequently, Rodman is likely to miss the Spirit’s match against the No. 3 Orlando Pride on Saturday, along with three USWNT friendlies at the end of October, including two against Portugal on October 23 and 26, and one against New Zealand on October 29.
During Wednesday’s match, Rodman fell while making a tackle. Trainers quickly came to her aid, but she couldn’t apply weight to her right foot and left the field in the 41st minute. She returned using crutches and a brace, watching the Spirit secure a 4-0 victory over CF Monterrey Femenil.
The injury coincided with Rodman’s call-up to the USWNT for the first time since April, after previously missing nine NWSL games due to a lower back issue.
USWNT head coach Emma Hayes has yet to announce who will take Rodman’s place.
Since returning, the 2024 Olympic gold medalist has tallied seven goals and two assists across all competitions.
The Spirit have two regular-season games left before shifting focus to the NWSL quarterfinals. They’re vying for second place in the league, which would grant home-field advantage in both the quarterfinals and semifinals if they progress.
