FC Barcelona Femeni’s goalkeeper, Cata Coll, has been through a rollercoaster of emotions lately. After recovering from a 13-month injury, she was pleasantly surprised to receive a call-up for the Spanish national team in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The 22-year-old Spaniard, who has been with FC Barcelona Femeni since 2019, expressed her joy about the unexpected call-up, stating, the goalkeeper was quoted by SPORT in a recent interview “I didn’t expect it, I was already planning my vacations but everything changed suddenly, it was very happy news.”
She was able to make the selection to the national team but her fellow teammate Sandra Paños, who had a stellar season with FC Barcelona Femeni, and contributed significantly to their league cup and UEFA Women’s Champions League triumph did not make the team. Coll acknowledged Paños’ great form and performance but emphasized that it was the coach’s decision saying, “She was in great form and had a 10/10 season. But, in the end, it’s the coach’s decision and we can’t do anything about it.”
As she prepares to represent her country on the world stage, Coll sees the opportunity as a valuable experience that will also benefit her club career. She believes the World Cup will be an excellent preparation for Barcelona’s preseason, stating, “This [World Cup] will prepare me for the preseason with Barça. In case something happens, I feel ready to play. And if the opportunity doesn’t come, then it will help me in the future.”
Reflecting on her challenging journey of recovery, the goalkeeper mentioned that being sidelined for 13 months due to a knee injury was tough both physically and mentally. However, her determination and mental strength were crucial in overcoming the hurdles and getting back to full fitness. Coll affirmed, “It’s an injury that makes you unstable and it was hard to accept the circumstances. I feel 100 percent ready. Working on my mental strength was important to keep going forward.”
Amidst the challenges, Cata Coll received uplifting news from the club. Barcelona expressed their faith in her abilities and revealed their intention to renew her contract. This gesture meant a lot to Coll, who said, “There were doubts because of the tough year. I saw that they were counting on me and that meant something. When they told me they wanted to renew me and that they loved me.”
Cata Coll’s resilience, talent, and dedication have earned her a spot on the national team, and her comeback after the injury setback is commendable. Fans and supporters will be eagerly cheering for her success, both on the international stage and upon her return to Barcelona.
