In Part 1 of a two part Exclusive interview Spain international and Florentina Serie A Ladies football star, San Javier born Marta Penalver, talks to Andrew Atkinson.
SAN Javier born Ladies football star Marta Penalver is living the dream of being a professional footballer – having played outside the family home on the streets of Murcia as a child.
“I am living the dream. I am lucky to be part of world football right now – and proud of my achievements,” Spain national team player Marta, told me.
“My love of football started when I used to kick a ball in the street,” said
Marta, who plays in the Italian League Ladies Serie A for Futsal Florencia (Florentina).
“During my school days in San Javier I continued playing football, and attended soccer schools,” said Marta.
Marta, who began her career at Roldan FSF, who played at Caligari, prior to joining Florentina, studied at the Ciencia de la Actividad Fiscia y el Deporte at the Universidad de Murcia, and went to I.E.S. Ruiz de Alda.
“When the time came to leave Spain I moved to Italy, and that was something that lead to continue to play the game I love,” said Marta, who lives in Florence, Italy.
Marta, who scored 27 goals for Florentina during the 2018-19 season, has been coaching in football campuses during the summer, including at San Miguel.
Marta – seen as one of the stars of football in Italy – with posters and advertising campaigns adorning her, said: “Ladies football is continuing to grow, but remains behind the mens.”
Marta, on being called up to represent Spain on the international world football stage, said: “Being called by the Spanish national team to represent my country was a very proud moment.”
Marta, a member of the Ladies 2015 World Cup squad, said: “Playing for Spain was another dream come true.”
*Part 2 of Andrew Atkinson’s Exclusive interview with Marta Penalver continues next week. Only in the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader.
