Liverpool FC Women’s midfielder Marie Höbinger has opened up about her first two months at the club, revealing how she has settled in and adapted to a new country, league, and style of play.
The 22-year-old Austria international joined the Reds in July from FC Zurich Frauen, where she won two league titles and a Swiss Women’s Cup during 18 months – while also picking up Champions League experience.
Höbinger, who can play in midfield or further forward, was handed her first call-up for her country in late 2019 and represented Austria at UEFA Women’s Euro 2022, held in England last summer.
She has made a bright start to life at Liverpool, scoring two goals in her first four appearances for the club, including a stunning strike in the 4-1 win over Leicester City Women in the FA Women’s Championship.
In an exclusive interview with Liverpoolfc.com, Höbinger spoke about her reasons for joining the club, her ambitions for the season, her relationship with manager Matt Beard and her teammates, and her impressions of the city and the fans.
Q: What made you decide to join Liverpool FC Women?
A: I had a perfect time in Zurich, but I wanted to take the next step in my career and challenge myself in a different environment. When I heard that Liverpool was interested in me, I was excited because it’s such a big club with a great history and a lot of tradition. I also knew that Matt Beard is an excellent coach who has won trophies with Liverpool and has much experience. He called me and explained his philosophy and vision for the team, and I liked what he said. He told me he wanted me to be part of his project and believed in me. That gave me a lot of confidence and motivation to join Liverpool.
Q: How have you found the transition from Switzerland to England, both on and off the pitch?
A: It’s been a very smooth transition, thanks to the help of everyone at the club. They have been very supportive and welcoming since day one. They have made me feel really at home here. The staff, the players, the fans – everyone has been excellent. I’m thrilled here.
It’s been a bit of an adjustment on the pitch because the league here is very competitive and physical. Every game is tough, and you must be ready for every challenge. But I think I have adapted well and enjoy playing in this league. It suits my style of play because it’s swift and dynamic. I like to play with intensity and energy, which this league demands.
Q: What are your goals and ambitions for this season with Liverpool?
A: My main goal is to help the team achieve our objectives, which are to win as many games as possible and to challenge for promotion to the WSL. We have a solid squad with a lot of quality and depth. We have a good mix of experienced players and young talents. We have a lot of potential and work hard every day to improve ourselves. We have started the season well, but know we can do even better. We have to keep working hard and stay focused on our targets.
I want to contribute as much as possible to the team’s success. I want to score goals, create chances, assist my teammates, defend well – whatever it takes to help the team win. I also want to keep developing as a player and learn from my coach and teammates. I want to become a better player every day.
Q: How is your relationship with Matt Beard? How does he help you improve your game?
A: Matt is a great coach and a great person. He has a lot of knowledge and experience in women’s football. He knows how to get the best out of every player. He gave me a lot of feedback and advice on improving my game. He gives me much freedom and confidence to express myself on the pitch. He trusts me, and he supports me. He is always there for me if I need anything. He is more than just a coach – he is like a friend.
Q: Who are your closest friends on the team? How do you spend your free time together?
A: I get along well with everyone on the team. We have an excellent team spirit, and we are like a family. We support each other on and off the pitch. We have fun together, and we laugh a lot.
I’m incredibly close with Rachel Furness, who is my roommate. She is like my big sister here. She helps me with everything – she shows me around the city, takes me shopping, and teaches me some English words. She is hilarious and kind.
We also spent much time with the other foreign players on the team, like Luisa Pinheiro, Yana Daniels, and Rylee Foster. We have a lot in common, and we understand each other well. We like going out for dinner, watching movies, playing games, and having a good time together.
Q: What are your impressions of Liverpool as a city and fan base?
A: Liverpool is a beautiful city with a lot of culture and history. I love the architecture, the museums, the parks, the waterfront – everything. It’s a joyful and vibrant city. There is always something going on and something to discover.
The fans are incredible. They are very passionate and loyal. They support us in every game, no matter what. They make us feel their love and their energy. They are the best fans in the world. I’m very grateful for their support, and I hope we can make them proud.
Originally posted 2023-09-05 18:35:16.
