New Arsenal signing Smilla Holmberg says she has settled in well to life in England.
The 19-year-old signed for the club in January, making her debut soon afterwards.
And she says that her quick adjustment to a new country and a new league is hugely down to her new team-mates, Frida Maanum and Stina Blackstenius.
The Gunners full back singles out Swedish compatriot Blackstenius in particular for praise, telling the official Arsenal website: “It’s my first time moving abroad, so I was very nervous at the beginning. A different culture, a different language – it’s a lot to get used to. But it helps so much to have people like Stina and Frida, who both speak my language. I don’t think there was one special day when I first felt at home, but I don’t feel nervous anymore!
“Stina, especially, has been great with everything. We knew each other a little bit before, but we get on so well now. She picks me up and drives me home every day and helps me with the big and small things. Stina’s amazing.”
Smilla Holmberg: Stina Blackstenius has always been a role model for me
And Holmberg admitted that Blackstenius has long been something of an inspiration for her – highlighting her winning goal in last year’s UEFA Women’s Champions League final as a special moment.
“I’ve always supported Arsenal. I was so impressed by how they played. It was very cool that Stina scored the winner, and her development here at Arsenal has honestly inspired me. She’s always been a role model for me, so I was very happy for her.
“Winning the Champions League was a special moment for the club that showed the quality of the group, and I’m just grateful that I get to be a part of this now.”
