MILAN — The `Puma House of Football` buzzed with anticipation as AC Milan Women presented their squad for the upcoming Serie A Femminile season. With a blend of retained talent and exciting new faces, the Rossonere are poised for a compelling campaign, set to kick off on October 5th against Genoa. While familiar stars prepare to shine, much of the spotlight has fallen on a particular 21-year-old Norwegian sensation, Thea Kyvag, whose journey to the professional football pitch is as unique as her playing style.
From Handball Courts to Football Fields: Thea Kyvag`s Remarkable Transition
The transition from handball to professional football isn`t a conventional one, but for Thea Kyvag, it`s the foundation of her burgeoning career. Hailing from a small village near Oslo, Kyvag initially followed in the footsteps of her mother, a 1999 World Champion in women`s handball. Until the age of 15, handball was her primary pursuit, a sport that undoubtedly forged her exceptional athleticism and leg strength. However, the lure of football, perhaps aided by her friends` enthusiasm, proved irresistible. Six years later, she finds herself representing one of Italy`s most storied clubs.
Describing herself as “ambidextrous, fast, and skilled in crossing,” Kyvag brings a dynamic edge to the Milan squad. Her brief stint at West Ham in England prior to joining Milan from Norway`s LSK Kvinner speaks volumes about her rapid development and the international recognition of her talent. It`s a testament to her dedication that a sport she embraced relatively late has become her professional calling, carrying the physical prowess of one discipline directly into another.
A Squad Blending Youth and Experience for a Promising Season
AC Milan Women`s media day revealed a squad built on continuity and fresh potential. The team has largely managed to retain its core players from the previous season, ensuring stability and established chemistry. Among the standout returnees is **Laura Giuliani**, the formidable national team goalkeeper with over 100 appearances for the Rossonere, whose experience will be invaluable. Scottish captain **Christy Grimshaw** continues to anchor the midfield, providing leadership and tenacity.
The future also looks bright with talents like **Giorgia Arrigoni**, a product of Milan`s youth academy who was recognized as the best Under 23 player in Serie A Femminile for the 2024-25 season. Her continued development alongside new acquisitions like Kyvag underscores Milan`s commitment to nurturing young talent and investing in the next generation of football stars. The season`s opener against Genoa on October 5th promises an exciting start to what many hope will be a memorable year for the Milanese side.
Milanese Life and a Distant Haaland Echo
Beyond the pitch, Thea Kyvag has embraced her new life in Milan with remarkable ease. Settled in the picturesque Navigli district, she expresses genuine affection for the city, noting its “quiet areas” and architecture that offer a comforting echo of home. The Italian climate, a stark contrast to Norway`s chill, has also been a welcome change. “The other day my mom sent me a photo in a winter coat; it was one degree in Norway,” Kyvag recounts with a smile. “I replied with a photo of myself in a T-shirt at 25 degrees.” The warmth of Italy, both literally and figuratively, seems to suit her.
In a delightful anecdote, Kyvag also revealed a tangential connection to one of football`s biggest names. While she`s never met Erling Haaland personally, she knows his family, having even played against his cousin once. It’s a subtle, almost humorous reminder of Norway`s rich footballing talent pool, placing Kyvag in an intriguing, albeit distantly connected, lineage of sporting prowess.
Anticipation Builds for a New Era
The presentation of AC Milan Women`s new squad, spearheaded by the fascinating story of Thea Kyvag, signals a season brimming with potential. From a former handball champion to a rising football star, Kyvag`s journey encapsulates the evolving landscape of women`s sports, where diverse backgrounds contribute to a richer, more dynamic game. With a foundation of experienced leaders and the infusion of exciting young talent, AC Milan Women are ready to embark on their new campaign, aiming to make their mark on Serie A Femminile. All eyes will be on October 5th as this promising squad steps onto the field, fueled by ambition and the unique spirit of players like Thea Kyvag.