Smilla Holmberg believes her first full pre-season with Arsenal has transformed her confidence after making another decisive contribution against Manchester United.
The 19-year-old came off the bench to score Arsenal’s dramatic stoppage-time equaliser in Saturday’s 1-1 Women’s Super League draw at Emirates Stadium.
Holmberg did more than simply score.
Her direct running and crossing immediately changed Arsenal’s threat down the right, earning her an 8.5 rating in our Arsenal Women player ratings against Manchester United.
Now the Sweden international has explained why she feels increasingly comfortable in Renée Slegers’ squad.
Smilla Holmberg credits Arsenal pre-season
Holmberg joined Arsenal from Hammarby in January and had only around 10 days to prepare before being thrown into competitive action.
This summer was very different.
She completed a six-week pre-season and was given significantly more time to understand Arsenal’s tactical demands and build relationships with her teammates.
Speaking to Arseblog News, Holmberg said:
“Pre-season gave me a lot of confidence.”
That preparation has also broadened her role.
Holmberg revealed she has worked in several positions during trai
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