Kerstin Casparij: Finding Balance Amidst Football's Frenzy

Kerstin Casparij is all about football, especially those electrifying Champions League evenings. Yet she knows the importance of keeping things in perspective. "Football is my most important secondary thing in life, and that mindset has really refreshed me," she shares ahead of Manchester City’s upcoming showdown with Inter Milan. The 26-year-old Dutch full-back has enjoyed a stunning year, clinching her first league title and FA Cup with Manchester City. This, her fourth season in England, has arguably been her best yet. Casparij has dazzled in the Women’s Super League, netting three goals and providing seven assists, tying her for the most assists in the league alongside Aston Villa’s Lynn Wilms. A significant factor in her development last season was the trust shown in her by coach Andrée Jeglertz. "I’m now allowed to really play on almost the whole right side," she explains. "I’m trusted to push forward and take risks in the final third." While Casparij gives credit to her teammates for their collective success, her individual performance earned her a spot on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, finishing 24th, the fifth-highest defender. Sharing her achievements with those who support her means the world to her. "They work tirelessly to help me out," she says, particularly mentioning her partner, who has been an incredible source of support. "I’m so grateful for her and appreciate everything she does. It’s nice to give back to those who have been there for me." Casparij’s genuine nature and playful spirit have made her a favorite among fans at City and beyond. Her Instagram is filled with witty captions that reveal her self-deprecating humor, both after wins and losses. She’s not just a fierce competitor on the pitch; she’s also a passionate advocate for important causes, including her role as an LGBT Foundation patron and sharing her journey with ADHD. "I always want to stay true to myself," she says. "I want friends from ten years ago to see that I haven’t changed. Having friends outside of football keeps things normal, especially since this industry can feel so abnormal." Maintaining connections is crucial for her, especially when the spotlight is on. "We’re often judged on our performances, so I need that sense of normality to keep my feet on the ground and not take things too seriously," Casparij reflects. Having a partner who understands the demands of a professional football career is vital. "I love football, but it takes over your life, and it’s taken over ours," she admits. "You need someone who’s on board with that. I try to make sure she knows it’s about her too. We’re definitely a two-person team, and her support is a huge part of my journey." Casparij’s path started far from her current heights, debuting for Heerenveen at just 15. When she signed a long-term deal with City nearly two years ago, she expressed a desire to achieve more. After winning the Double in May, she described the feeling as "incredible," noting it was a long time coming. "There was a big feeling of relief. We were determined to win the league and stayed calm until the end. We focused on a winning mentality, talking about 'when' we win rather than 'if,' which helped create a positive environment." Looking ahead, the question looms: Can City defend their title? After missing out on the Champions League last season, there were doubts about their ability to handle the pressure this time around. Currently, they sit at the top of the table, unbeaten after nine games, two points ahead of Chelsea, who recently drew with Everton. City’s attacking prowess remains potent, although they’ve just recorded their second clean sheet in a 5-0 victory against West Ham. In the Champions League, they are still finding their rhythm with three draws from three matches. Were they aware of the skepticism surrounding them before the season? "Some thought we were going to bottle it late last season," Casparij laughs. "We see the media coverage, and while we don’t dwell on it, we’re aware of it. It’s part of the game."