Alisha Lehmann issues encouraging message to young girls on 'the power women can wield' as Como star says she's more comfortable playing 'with long nails and makeup'

Lehmann is fond of having long hair, long nails, and wearing makeup, whether it be off the football field or on it. Her preferences have, however, often been scrutinised. Sporting a glamorous on-field appearance has come at a cost for the former Aston Villa star, with doubters often claiming she lacks professionalism and commitment to the sport. Despite the backlash, the Swiss international continues to do what she believes to be right for her, living life by the motto "haters gonna hate, lovers gonna love."

Recently speaking at the Trento Sports Festival in Italy, Lehmann said: "I want people to know that playing football and being on social media are not mutually exclusive. Social media makes women's football more popular, and we need fans and platforms. I want young girls to know that you can play football even with long nails and makeup. I like wearing heels, but I'm still a professional. The important thing is to feel comfortable, because that's the only way you can pursue your passion. As a teenager, I liked eyelashes, nails and nail polish, which wasn't the ideal profile for a footballer. People think of baggy shirts and shorts, but I was different. I liked taking care of my appearance; I wore tighter shorts, but it wasn't a problem for me. I've always been like that and I didn't pay attention to people."

Over the summer, Lehmann joined Como after spending one year at Juventus, describing her exit as a "very difficult decision." She has started in both Serie A Femminile games, including Como's 1-0 win over her former team Juve last weekend. 

Her life at Stadio Ferruccio has been off to a good start, with Lehmann sharing her thoughts on her experience with her new team so far. “I really like the fact that it's an all-female team and that there's a kind of 'power' that we women can wield without being subordinate to men," she said. "Beyond that, we're a great team that helps and supports each other. We just need to work on our teamwork and we'll win a lot.”

Como Women will travel to Sassuolo on October 18 in what could be a tough fixture for Lehmann and her team-mates. Then, she will be expected to be called up by Switzerland for the upcoming international break.