Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has provided financial support to Kayleigh McDonald during her recovery from an ACL injury for the last four months. This aid came after Stoke City, McDonald’s previous club, stated that she would need to cover her own rehabilitation costs following the injury.
McDonald, who is currently a free agent, suffered an ACL tear while playing for a third-division team in March 2024. Stoke City recommended that she join the National Health Service’s waiting list for treatment. Seeking quicker assistance, she learned that private medical care could exceed $25,000. Consequently, she initiated a GoFundMe page in April 2024.
“So sad to say that just when I thought the women’s game was finally getting somewhere, I receive the worst news that I will have to join the NHS waiting list for surgery after an injury I sustained playing a league game for my club,” McDonald shared on GoFundMe—per the Guardian. “I’ve suffered far more mentally than physically with this injury, especially as it will inevitably end my football career. I’m currently unable to work, walk, and am not earning any income while still struggling to pay my bills. Just getting to see a consultant could take over a month of waiting. I can’t sustain myself financially.”
The GoFundMe campaign caught enough attention that Wright learned about McDonald’s situation and subsequently hired a sports lawyer to represent her. Following this, Stoke City agreed to cover her surgery expenses by May, although they suggested they would only pay for her rehabilitation until November. With Wright’s involvement, they extended their support to include December, and he has been financing her rehabilitation costs from January onwards, which totals approximately $2,300 per month.
“Stoke said they don’t believe I’m where I should be and that they’d like to take control of my rehab because they truly care about me, which was baffling since they never once checked in on me,” McDonald told the Times—source. “Ian started paying in January and now covers my rehab.”
Wright has never announced his support for McDonald publicly, nor did he request any acknowledgment for his assistance.
“He or anyone on his team has never said, ‘Can you say this about it?’” exclaimed McDonald. “I asked him once if I could shout him out on Twitter, and he said, ‘If you want to, but don’t feel you need to.’ I’ve never felt any obligation from him.”
The story gained traction following comments made by Eniola Aluko, a former England women’s national team player, suggesting that male analysts like Wright inhibit opportunities for women in broadcasting. Many came to Wright’s defense, noting that he rarely serves as an analyst for women’s soccer but has consistently supported women’s football.
Wright attended the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where England finished as runners-up, primarily as a fan and only covered two games for broadcasters. Notably, he partnered with Barclays to establish the Ian Wright Coaching Fund in 2023, which contributed to an increase in female coaches at grassroots levels. This fund has supported around 664 coaches through their level one training course and saw an additional donation from Wright himself amounting to nearly $20,000.
“He’s just a regular guy,” shared McDonald. “He’s legendary and genuinely seems to have a kind heart. He’s committed to the women’s game. I believe he doesn’t get enough credit for the efforts he invests. We’ve wanted male figures to raise awareness for our sport, and he’s been a true advocate. He knows virtually every player in the Women’s Super League. His passion is authentic. My friends from women’s football, including those who played for Ireland and England, now refer to him as ‘Uncle Ian’ due to his contributions.”
