Mary Fowler delivers emotional message after taking shock break from the Matildas over her mental health
Mary Fowler has shared an emotional message on Instagram urging her followers to show their affection for their loved ones following her decision to step away from the Matildas to focus on her mental health.
The 21-year-old Matildas and Manchester City star has released another series of photos on Instagram, with the caption ‘Tell your friends you love them’, alongside images of her enjoying a business trip to Barcelona.
The photos include moments with her Manchester City teammates, live music, coffee and the historic architecture of Barcelona.
On her Instagram Stories, Fowler added another image with her teammates, writing, “Lots of positives to take away from 2024 together. See you later,” accompanied by a blue heart emoji.
Fowler’s decision to retire from international competition came as a surprise to many.
“I have decided to take this time to prioritize recovery to refresh both mentally and physically so that I can continue to put my best self forward for both club and country,” she said ahead of the friendlies against Brazil and Taiwan. .
Fowler battles for the ball with Barcelona’s Spanish forward Claudia Pina as the Aussie suffered another heavy defeat
After a rough few months, Fowler shared this post with her social media followers
The Matildas attack remains optimistic despite sitting out the recent caps and the battle with City
‘Playing for the national team is something I never take for granted.’
‘Past experiences have made me realize that my body and mind are also things that I should never take for granted.
“I really appreciate everyone’s support and understanding, and I hope to see you all soon.”
During her break, Fowler spent time with family and reconnected with her boyfriend, NRL star Nathan Cleary.
Cleary shared photos of the couple spending time together in Burleigh Heads, Queensland.
“It was tough, but we got it done,” Cleary said at the time.
“I would love to start a family with Mary someday, but for now we are focusing on our careers.”
Upon returning to Manchester City, Fowler showed strong form, scoring two goals in her first two games.
Fowler and her Manchester City teammates took in the sights of Barcelona along the way
The Australian star’s decision to retire from international football shocked her fans
Fowler (pictured during the defeat to Barcelona) will be a crucial part of the Matildas’ progress, especially as there is no set return date for striker and former captain Sam Kerr
However, her team has recently faced challenges, including a historic defeat to Everton and a 3-0 loss to Barcelona in the Women’s Champions League.
It could have been a lot worse for the WSL challengers as Barcelona rained in 30 shots to three in a hugely one-sided match at the Olympic Stadium.
The result made City’s victory in the reverse fixture in Manchester at the start of October feel an awfully long time ago.
City manager Gareth Taylor said of the match against Barcelona: ‘This match will not define us. We will learn, get better and improve.”
Fowler’s decision to take a break was supported by Football Australia CEO James Johnson.
“Mary had a health issue that required us to support her,” Johnson said.
“And we support her that she needs a little break.
‘I think the challenge around the international calendar for the women is now very tough.
“It’s great leadership for Mary to raise her hand and say, ‘I need a break and I need to get my head and body right.’
Matildas teammate Caitlin Foord also publicly explained his support for Fowler’s choice.
‘The game now has more demands. It is important to have the networks and support for mental and physical wellbeing.”