Mary Fowler has shared an emotional message on Instagram urging her followers to show their affection for their loved ones after 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 to Instagram, with the caption ‘Tell your friends you love them’ alongside images of hers enjoying a working trip to Barcelona.
The photos included moments with her Manchester City teammates, live music, coffee and Barcelona’s historic architecture.
On her Instagram Stories, Fowler added another image with her teammates, writing, ‘A lot of positives to take out 2024, onwards together. See you in a bit,’ accompanied by a blue heart emoji.
Fowler’s decision to step away from international games came as a surprise to many.
‘I’ve decided to take this time to prioritise recovery in order to refresh both mentally and physically, so that I can continue to put my best self forward for both club and country,’ she said prior to the friendly matches against Brazil and Taiwan.
Fowler fights for the ball with Barcelona’s Spanish forward Claudia Pina as the Aussie endured another tough loss
After a tough couple of months, Fowler shared this message to her followers on social media
The Matildas strike weapon is remaining optimistic despite sitting out the recent international matches and struggles with City
‘Playing for the national team is something that I never take for granted.’
‘Through past experiences, I’ve come to realise that my mind and body 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 enjoying time together at Burleigh Heads, Queensland.
‘It’s been tough, but we’ve made it work,’ Cleary said at the time.
‘I’d love to have a family with Mary one day, but for now, we’re focused on our careers.’
Upon returning to Manchester City, Fowler displayed strong form, scoring two goals in her first two games.
Fowler and her Manchester City teammates took in the sights of Barcelona while on the road
The Aussie star’s decision to step away from international football shocked her fans
Fowler (pictured during the loss to Barcelona) will be a critical part of the Matildas moving forward, especially with no set return date for striker and former captain Sam Kerr
However, her team recently faced challenges, including a historic loss to Everton and a 3-0 defeat to Barcelona in the Women’s Champions League.
It could have been much worse for the WSL challengers, as Barcelona rained in 30 shots to three in a hugely one-sided contest at the Olympic Stadium.
The result made City’s win in the reverse fixture back in Manchester at the start of October feel an awfully long time ago.
Speaking on the Barcelona match, City manager Gareth Taylor said, ‘This game won’t define us. We’ll 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 we needed to support her on,’ Johnson said.
‘And we’re supportive of her needing to have a short break.
‘I think the challenge is around the international calendar for the women’s game is really heavy now.
‘It’s great leadership by Mary to put her hand up and say “I need a break and I need to get my head and body right”.’
Matildas Teammate Caitlin Foord also made a public statement of support for Fowler’s choice.
‘The game has more demands now. It’s important to have the networks and support for mental and physical wellbeing.’
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