PNG-Australian footballer Mary Fowler has suffered a long-term injury blow after confirmation she ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament at the weekend, 11 months out from Australia hosting the AFC Women's Asian Cup.

The Matildas star sustained the injury during her club Manchester City's FA Cup semi final loss to arch rivals Manchester United at the weekend.

City were previously hopeful of avoiding the worst ACL news - which regularly sidelines athletes from a 12 month period.

"We're not fearing the worst here, but ultimately, if you come off with knee pain, to turn it around in seven days [is tough] but I don't know, I'll leave it with the medical team," Sky Blues manager Nick Cushing said earlier this week.

City and Football Australia confirmed those fears on Wednesday night, Australian time.

"Mary will remain under the care of the Club's medical team and start her rehabilitation," Manchester City said in an update.

"Everyone at City wishes Mary all the best on a full and speedy recovery."

Australian performance support staff will remain in "close contact" during Fowler's recovery, Football Australia said.

The setback comes less than a year out from Australia hosting the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, starting in March.

Fowler played a crucial role in the Matildas' near-fairytale run during a home World Cup in 2023.

"I'm really disappointed to be facing some time out of the game," the 22-year-old said.

"It's never easy when something like this happens, especially when you've been working so hard and feeling good. The road ahead will be challenging, but I'm ready to take it on.

"There's still so much I want to achieve, and I'll be using this time to grow in every way I can."

Fowler said she's "committed to doing the work, staying positive and coming back better than ever".

"I want to say a big thank you to everyone who's sent messages or checked in - it's honestly meant so much," she said.

"The support from my teammates, family, friends and fans has been a real lift and reminded me how lucky I am to be surrounded by such a strong network."

With less than a month remaining in the English Women's Super League season, Fowler sat atop the league leaderboard for goal assists, and equal 11th for goals scored after netting six times for the Sky Blues.

"This is tough news for Mary and for all of us who know the dedication and passion she brings to her craft," Matildas interim head coach Tom Sermanni said.

"She's an exceptional talent and a much-loved member of our team, and we know she'll meet this challenge with the same courage she brings to the pitch.

"Everyone in the Matildas and Football Australia family – players, coaches, and support staff – will be right behind Mary as she takes the first steps toward her comeback."