FC Bayern Women have been bolstered by the arrival of a new goalkeeper. The German champions have signed Erin Nayler from Swedish first division club IFK Norrköping. The 31-year-old New Zealand goalkeeper has been handed a one-year contract. "I'm very happy to be here. I've had a look at the FC Bayern Campus and the conditions here and that's all you can ask for in professional football. I'm really looking forward to the experience," said Nayler.
"We have incredible quality in the team"
The New Zealander is also looking forward to meeting her new teammates: "I know many of the players, we have incredible quality in the team and I can't wait to train with them. I'll give everything and push myself and the other goalkeepers as hard as I can. My dream is to get to the Champions League final with the team."
Erin Nayler in action for New Zealand.
Rech: "Experience at the very highest level"
Head of women's football at FC Bayern Bianca Rech: "We're delighted that Erin is coming to Munich and to FC Bayern. After the injury to Cecilía Rúnarsdóttir, it was clear that we'd have to make another addition to our goalkeeping team. We've had an eye on Erin for a while and she's a keeper who can help our goalkeeping team with her experience," Rech said. "It was important to us that we sign a seasoned player who is there for the team and who can support the young goalkeepers. Erin brings all of that with her, because she has experience at the very highest level, has played in different countries and is also the New Zealand goalkeeper."
Nayler makes a save against the USA at the She Believes Cup. In the background: former Bayern player Ali Riley.
Nayler most recently plied her trade in the Swedish league. Before that, the 31-year-old had spells in several countries. Before her time with Norrköping, the New Zealander was under contract with Sky Blue FC in the US, Olympique Lyon in France and Reading in England, among others.
"Still get shivers down my spine"
The New Zealander comes to Munich feeling very euphoric, because her home country recently hosted the FIFA Women's World Cup together with Australia - and Nayler was in the World Cup squad: "The World Cup was incredible. I can't even describe how cool it was. Our opening game alone changed football in New Zealand forever. I still get shivers down my spine. I hope this successful tournament has a lasting effect - in New Zealand, in Australia and around the world."
Nayler and her team will also be playing at the Allianz Arena soon:
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