‘NO WOMAN IS AN ISLAND.’

Nicknamed ‘Queen Deyna’, Deyna Castellanos is the youngest nominee ever for FIFA’s Best Women’s Player of the Year award. The Manchester City forward discusses the importance of resilience, discipline and following your dreams.

ON HER CHILDHOOD: I grew up in Maracay in Venezuela and had a great childhood. Being surrounded by supportive family and friends provided me with a foundation to play football.

I actually used to go to training with my brother with my local team Escuela de Fútbol Juan Arango. My mum is my biggest inspiration.

ON HER PROUDEST MOMENT: When I was in the States, I was shortlisted in the final three nominees for the FIFA Best Women’s Player of the Year award. That was a highlight. Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is also a dream come true for me.  

‘Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is a dream come true.’

‘Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is a dream come true.’

‘Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is a dream come true.’

‘Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is a dream come true.’

ON HER STYLE: I spend a lot of time in sports clothes so, when I get dressed up, I feel really empowered. Dressing up gives me more confidence. It lifts my energy and my mood. It makes my day better, for sure.

ON PREPARATION: Music is a big part of my match preparation. It helps me to concentrate, loosen up a little bit and get into the vibe.

‘They told me to believe in myself and strive for success, no matter the situation around you.’

‘Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is a dream come true.’

‘Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is a dream come true.’

‘Being part of big clubs, like Manchester City, is a dream come true.’

ON RESILIENCE: A big moment in my life was when I moved to the United States to start college when I was 16. I am very proud of that decision and how it absolutely changed my life for the better. I was young, didn’t know any English and managing my studies and soccer was difficult at times. Moving to the US, of course, was a challenge but it was also a very positive, rewarding experience and taught me the importance of resilience.

During that time, my teammates, coaching staff and professors helped me considerably and they told me to believe in myself and strive for success, no matter the situation around you. I wouldn’t have been able to make it without the support and counsel of my coach at Florida State Seminoles women's soccer team, Mark Krikorian.