How street football shaped Kerolin Nicoli | OneFootball

Kerolin Nicoli is the latest guest in the Official Man City Podcast hot seat, with her episode available to watch tonight at 18:00 (UK) on CITY+.

The Brazil international signed for City in January following a sparkling and historic spell in the United States where she helped North Carolina Courage to back-to-back NWSL Challenge Cup triumphs while being named the division’s MVP in 2023.

Her spell in America followed periods in Brazil and Spain as she established herself as one of world football’s most exciting talents.

That, of course, led her to the Joie Stadium where she went on to play 18 times – scoring four goals and registering two assists after her Blues arrival.

And Kerolin Nicoli explained on the Official Man City Podcast that her love of football began playing in the backstreets of Brazil and by doing so, shaped the player she is today.

“When I started [playing football], I started playing in the streets,” she said.

“This was more painful and hard, I think every time when I was playing I just was hurting my toes and it’s just part of the game.

“I can’t describe how it helps but it, for sure, brings out something strong in me. I have so much love to play now on the good pitches and at City, it’s a dream.

“I know my skills and it’s good to have the players and the staff who support you to do what you’re best at.”

Kerolin Nicoli didn’t just gain a footballing education in the classroom of Brazilian streets, she also enhanced her skills when juggling – known as ‘altinha’ in her homeland.

In South America, the game is often played on the beach and tournaments are held each year.

For the Blues’ skilful winger, she expressed how juggling enhanced her passion for football but warned it’s harder than it looks.

She added: “We love that [keeping the ball up], I particularly love that, too.

“It’s interesting because any footballer who went to play and tries, it’s not the same, it’s a really technical thing.

“So some of them say it’s not for them, another try to get better because you need to be good at that. It’s just really fun, also this sport helps our mindset because it’s fun.

“They also have tournaments which is fun to watch and you can get better and better and just see how you grow in the sport and it’s really fun, especially because it’s on the beach and everyone else is happy in the sun.

“It’s a really nice sport.”

After representing Brazil at various youth levels, she made her senior debut against England at Notts County’s Meadow Lane in a 1-0 defeat.

She has since made a total of 46 outings for her nation while helping them to Copa America glory in 2022 and a Silver Medal at the 2024 Olympic Games.

Although the 25-year-old has already achieved immense success internationally, she says she’s working hard to reach new heights for Brazil and City.

She declared: “When you play for your national team it’s always a dream. I just feel really happy and it’s an honour,” Kerolin Nicoli declared.

“When I’m there I want to try my best for my whole country, family and friends. I just feel really excited and I really believe people are saying at my age now I’m starting to reach my best moment.

“I’m working hard to see that. Sometimes, the things that happened to me before was helping me have experience, be brave and have courage and believe.

“When I’m there I just try to enjoy and the coach gives us the freedom to be us which is really important.”