Elma Junttila Nelhage, defender of BK Hacken and in the sights of OL
This winter, OL women recorded the arrival of Elma Junttila Nelhage. The young Swede, in addition to her free status, has characteristics that appealed to Joe Montemurro.
For four days now, a new face has been added to the OL women's group. Without really expecting it, the Lyon club signed a winter recruit with the arrival of Elma Junttila Nelhage. The young defender comes straight from BK Häcken and despite her 21 years, she already has solid experience. With the presence of Wendie RenardVanessa Gilles, Alice Sombath or Sofia Huerta capable of playing in the center, the recruitment of Junttila Nelhage could be questioned. However, Joe Montemurro explained what the Swede would bring to OL. “She is a player we have been following for some time and her qualities are those of a left-handed central defender, the coach told us this Monday. There aren't many in Europe that suit our style, which is a lot of passing, very good on the ball, very good with the ball.”
“She needs to acclimatize to her new environment.”
At 21, the Swedish U23 international will be able to learn alongside her elders and thus progress at her own pace. In the midst of an adaptation phase, Elma Junttila Nelhage will not be launched into the deep end straight away. Montemurro believes that the player will have “Needed some time off as his championship ended early in December. There will be a mini pre-season for her to settle in.”
However, the Australian coach is delighted with this defensive reinforcement, despite an already bloated squad. “We recruited for now, but also for the future. She is a player of immense talent and she will be fantastic in the future of OL.” If she certainly has to wait for her debut in Lyon, the Swede is already on conquered territory, after only a few days in Décines.
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