Everton
Everton’s Italian international midfielder, Aurora Galli, is eagerly anticipating the upcoming Merseyside Derby against Liverpool at Goodison Park. The clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, especially after Everton’s surprising 4-1 victory at Anfield earlier this season. However, Liverpool recently knocked Everton out of the Women’s FA Cup, adding an extra layer of intensity to this weekend’s fixture.
Aurora Galli said: “I am feeling the passion of the derby already. We don’t want to speak about red this week, I am from Milan, and I’m wearing blue still, so it’s good. From day one, the first game I was thinking about was the derby and on Saturday, we will give everything to get the three points. When I first got here, the men’s season had started before ours and everyone was out on the streets, wearing the jerseys and screaming, I was so curious to see what it was about.”
Galli’s enthusiasm is palpable as she reflects on her experiences at Goodison Park, describing the stadium’s atmosphere as both intimidating and exhilarating. Her goal in the recent FA Cup encounter against Liverpool showcased her ability to perform on the big stage, and she is determined to help Everton secure a win this time around.
Aurora Galli said: “At first, we were a little bit nervous to play at Goodison Park. It’s a big stadium, a very important stadium. The fans in there you can feel it, they are very close to the pitch. It’s impressive all the time, and when you’re in the tunnel, you can hear Z-Cars, and you’re like: ‘Okay, now it’s 90 minutes – with blood.’ Now, we’re very happy and we’re very proud to play at Goodison.”
In addition to her on-field ambitions, Galli is committed to inspiring the next generation of female footballers. She recently participated in a bracelet and bag-charm making workshop with young Everton Women season ticket holders, emphasizing the importance of having female role models in football.
Aurora Galli said: “There weren’t many female role models in football for me growing up. For me, it was mostly just the men, watching with my dad and my brother. I didn’t even know there was women’s football. Slowly, I learned and Marta became one of my favourites. This was relatively late for me, so absolutely, I think it is very important to give an impression to the girls what we’re like away from the pitch, to meet them and provide something different.”
Galli’s journey from her hometown in Lombardy to becoming a key player for Everton highlights her dedication to the sport. She draws inspiration from her idol, Javier Zanetti, and encourages young players to explore opportunities beyond their home countries to grow both personally and professionally.
Aurora Galli said: “I always tried to be like him because on and off the pitch he was incredible. It’s a very important role to have I think. Five years ago when I came, I was just trying give advice to the young people to try a different style, don’t just stay in Italy. We can grow in Italy, but for me it is more important to see the world and other cultures.”
As Everton prepares for the derby under interim head coach Scott Phelan, Galli’s leadership and experience will be crucial. The club has undergone significant changes this season, with ten new signings and a managerial shift, but Galli remains optimistic about the team’s prospects.
Tickets for the highly anticipated Everton Women vs. Liverpool Women match are available, with family-friendly activities planned for supporters, including a visit from the Easter Bunny. The derby is set to be a memorable occasion for all involved.
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