Lucia Loi opens up about endometriosis battle while supporting Rashford at World Cup

Lucia Loi, partner of England forward Marcus Rashford, has publicly disclosed her battle with endometriosis in an emotional Instagram post, sharing a photograph of herself in tears after the condition prevented her from attending a friend’s birthday celebration.

Loi, 28, posted the image this week alongside a candid caption in which she described the moment she had her heels on and makeup done, ready to go out, only for endometriosis to intervene. “I’ve been meaning to post about this for so long, but I never really found the courage,” she wrote. “Last night, though, I felt so much anger at the fact that so many women go through this while there are so few effective treatment options and the condition remains so under-researched.”

She added that she intends to share more about the things that have helped her manage the condition over time, and closed her post with a message of solidarity: “I’m sending so much love to anyone living with a women’s health condition.”

The post drew a wave of supportive responses, including from fellow partners of England players. Megan Pickford, partner of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, wrote: “Oh my darling, such an important message.” Sasha Attwood, Jack Grealish’s partner, commented: “Love you special girl.”

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, most commonly on pelvic organs. Because the misplaced tissue has no way to exit the body, it causes severe internal inflammation, debilitating pelvic pain, painful periods, scar tissue formation, and potential fertility issues. The NHS estimates it affects one in ten women in the UK, and there is currently no definitive cure.

Despite the difficult week, Loi was in attendance at the stadium in New Jersey as Rashford started England’s 2-0 World Cup 2026 group-stage victory over Panama. The Manchester United winger, who had already scored in England’s opening win against Croatia, impressed on the left flank as the Three Lions secured their place in the knockout rounds.

Loi and Rashford have known each other since attending Ashton-on-Mersey School in Greater Manchester. The pair first dated when Loi was around 15, separated in 2021, rekindled their relationship in 2022, and have been together since.