Celin Bizet Dønnum Embraces Pregnancy While Continuing Manchester United Career

Manchester United Women’s forward, Celin Bizet Dønnum, is currently navigating pregnancy while remaining an active part of the team, demonstrating a growing trend of footballers balancing motherhood and their professional careers. The Norwegian international announced her pregnancy in January 2026, and is receiving support from the club, and teammates.

A Growing Trend in Women’s Football

Bizet Dønnum’s pregnancy is notable as it highlights a shift in women’s football, where more players are choosing to start families during their playing careers. This is a relatively recent phenomenon, as historically, the demands of professional sport often led athletes to postpone parenthood until retirement. Ellen White, former England striker, recently discussed Bizet Dønnum’s journey, exploring the decision-making process and the support systems in place for pregnant players. Source

Continued Involvement with Manchester United

Despite being pregnant, Bizet Dønnum remains engaged with the team, attending training sessions and participating in modified drills. She emphasizes the importance of staying connected and maintaining her fitness. “It’s nice to feel fresher when I come into the gym, do things you normally do, move on the pitch, be a part of the group, not just disappear! I go home every day with a great feeling, telling myself, ‘I trained today’,” she stated in an interview with the club’s official website. Source

While she is not involved in contact sessions, Bizet Dønnum continues to participate in passing drills and warm-ups, benefiting from a tailored training schedule developed with the club’s physical coaches. The support she receives is evident, with coaches focused on her development even during this period.

Inspired by Hannah Blundell’s Return

Bizet Dønnum draws motivation from the experience of teammate Hannah Blundell, who successfully returned to action in November after missing the entire 2024-2025 season due to her own pregnancy. Blundell’s fitness and performance post-pregnancy serve as an encouraging example for Bizet Dønnum. Source

Player Profile: Celin Bizet Dønnum

Celin Bizet Dønnum, born on October 24, 2001, in Frogner i Sørum, Norway, is a forward for Manchester United and the Norway national team. She joined Manchester United in 2024 from Tottenham Hotspur, having previously played for Paris Saint-Germain and Vålerenga. Source

As of October 3, 2025, she has made 27 appearances for Manchester United, scoring 2 goals. Prior to joining United, she played 42 games for Tottenham Hotspur, scoring 6 goals. Source She has also represented Norway at various youth levels and has 31 caps for the senior national team, scoring 7 goals. Source

Looking Ahead

Celin Bizet Dønnum’s pregnancy marks a significant moment for Manchester United Women and for the broader landscape of women’s football. Her continued involvement with the team, coupled with the support she receives, sets a positive example for other athletes considering starting families while pursuing their careers.