Öling's first Palace interview: Playing in this league is a dream for me
For Ria Öling, adapting to life at Crystal Palace Women has been a whirlwind of new experiences – but the Finnish midfielder is taking it all in her stride.
Fresh from her move to the Barclays Women’s Super League, Öling is adjusting to a new city, a new team, and the demands of a competitive league she has long dreamed of playing in.
She said: “New country, new city – but yes, it feels good to be here.
“The facilities are excellent, and everyone here genuinely cares about the players and wants the best for them. That’s something that stood out to me straight away.
"Everything’s felt like a good step forward. At first, I was a bit lonely, but now I feel like I’m settling in. The atmosphere here makes it easier.”
Comparing her previous experiences in Sweden to the WSL, Öling spoke about the heightened quality and intensity of the English league.
“All the players here are given better conditions to train and play. It’s easier to grow and become a better player. The league is definitely more demanding, but I’m ready for it.”
"I want to play a lot, to make it into the starting line-up. Maybe not straight away, but that’s my focus: to contribute to the team and show what I can do."
She said: "This league has been a dream for me, and now I’m here.
"I just need to work hard every day, develop my game, and prove I belong at this level."
With a positive attitude and clear ambitions, Öling's journey with Palace promises to be one to watch.
Tickets for our next match, away to Brighton & Hove Albion this Sunday (2nd February, 14:00 GMT), are available here.