Fernández commits to London City as they aim for Women's Super League success

Jana Fernández has committed her future to the London City Lionesses by signing a new contract that extends until 2029. The Spanish defender believes that the club is on the verge of making a significant impact in the Women’s Super League, a sentiment that reflects her firsthand experience of the team's rapid evolution since her arrival.

Having joined the Lionesses before a summer of substantial investment, Fernández has witnessed the transformation both on and off the pitch. "I’m really happy to be building something big with the club," she stated, highlighting the importance of her role in this ambitious project. She feels that her continued development alongside the team is crucial, as she learns from her teammates and coaches.

Fernández, who previously spent most of her career at Barcelona, has adapted to a different style of play in England. At Barcelona, she was accustomed to a possession-dominant approach, facing fewer defensive challenges. Now, she finds herself in situations where she must defend more frequently, stating, "I’m trying to work on my defensive aspects. Maybe before I would face one or two defensive actions at Barcelona; now I have 15 or 20 per game." This challenge has been embraced as part of her growth as a player.

The relationship with head coach Eder Maestre has been pivotal in her development. Fernández appreciates Maestre's approach to involving players in tactical discussions, which has deepened her understanding of her game. "He’s really close to us. He really tells you what you need to improve and what he wants from you," she explained. This clarity and openness have fostered a strong team dynamic, essential for their ambitions.

The squad has seen significant changes this season, with several established international players joining, including former Barcelona teammates Alexia Putellas and Mapi León. Fernández acknowledges the advantage of these pre-existing connections, stating, "It feels incredible... I feel really comfortable playing with them." However, she emphasizes that the team's progress is not solely dependent on star signings but also on the chemistry and hard work of all players.

Fernández believes that the blend of different footballing backgrounds will help London City develop a unique identity. "In my opinion, Spanish football is probably one of the best in the world right now," she said, suggesting that integrating this style into the English league will be fascinating. The team aims to dominate games and control their opponents, a goal that reflects their collective ambition.

Despite the influx of talent, Fernández insists that the identity of London City is built collectively. She recognizes the importance of players who have been at the club longer, stating, "It’s important to always have players that can show us what London City is because some of us come from different cultures, different teams." This collaborative spirit is vital as they work to establish a cohesive identity.

As the team continues to evolve, Fernández sees herself as a key figure in passing on this identity to new arrivals. She acknowledges the ongoing process of building the club's future, stating, "I’m also trying to explain to all these girls what we are trying to build here." The transformation since her arrival has been significant, with improvements in infrastructure and a clear footballing vision under Maestre.

This season, the Lionesses have shown marked improvement in their playing style compared to last season. Fernández noted that while the ideas were present, the team is now better prepared to implement them successfully. However, recent challenges, such as a defeat to West Ham, have highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in defensive organization.

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Looking ahead to their next match against Charlton, Fernández recognizes the need for better defensive strategies, especially against counterattacks. She believes that the competitive nature of the league has increased, making every match a test of skill and strategy. "To win the league is going to be really tough for everybody, and I think that’s the beauty of this," she concluded, emphasizing her commitment to the club's ambitious goals.

Fernández's decision to stay with London City is not just about witnessing the project unfold; she is eager to play an active role in shaping the team's future and achieving their aspirations in the Women’s Super League.