Khadija Shaw misses Paris trip due to visa issues

Khadija Shaw, Manchester City's star striker, was unable to participate in the crucial Women’s Champions League qualifier against Paris FC due to a visa application error by the club. The match, which took place on Wednesday evening, was significant as it marked the first leg of the second-round qualifier. Shaw's absence is particularly impactful given her status as the club's record goalscorer and her recent accolades, including being named the WSL player of the season and winning the Golden Boot with 21 goals in 18 appearances. Manchester City had aimed to secure a visa for Shaw at the last minute but were unsuccessful, which left them without one of their key players for this important match. The team is looking to return to the Champions League proper for the first time since 2021, having faced challenges in the play-offs in recent years. The stakes are high as they compete against Paris FC, who have shown their strength by knocking out notable teams like Arsenal and Wolfsburg in their previous Champions League campaign. The return leg of the qualifier is scheduled for next Thursday, following Manchester City's Women’s Super League season opener against Arsenal on Sunday. The club's management will need to address the visa issue promptly to ensure that Shaw can participate in the upcoming matches, as her contributions are vital for the team's success. This situation highlights the importance of timely administrative processes in professional sports, as even minor oversights can have significant consequences on a team's performance and aspirations in high-stakes competitions.