Integration Journey
Exclusive Interview with CNN Sports: It's been ten seasons since you drifted overseas, have you fully integrated into the life of a foreign country? What are the significant changes compared to your first arrival?
Shen Mengyu made a true confession:
The sense of acclimatization has really increased compared to before. At first, even taking the subway, public transportation, and purchasing ingredients seemed strange. Now, my daily communication with my teammates is smooth, and I have gradually integrated into the life here.
The relationship with my teammates is also getting better and better. Although I am not a social person, I have gradually found a sense of belonging in the team under the new environment. Now, I get along quite well with everyone.
I was very lucky when I first arrived here. I received a lot of help and the teammates showed great kindness.
Whenever a new tactic or training program was introduced, they would always pay attention to me and ask if I understood it. If I didn't, they would ask the coach to explain it again or demonstrate it themselves to make sure I understood it completely.
Shen Mengyu (first from right) shares her joy with her teammates. Image from: Shen Mengyu's personal social platform
My teammates would also urge me to learn English, asking daily, "What did you learn today?" And from time to time, they teach me some words and expressions.
During the Lunar New Year, I also invited my teammates to my home to celebrate the festivities by preparing a sumptuous Chinese meal with a wide variety of dishes, including braised pork, shrimp, and tiger eggs.
This was made possible by the sharing of all the major food bloggers, and many of the dishes I learned on the spot, and was busy for about two hours or so.
I also received gifts from my teammates, including a painted tiger and "Happy New Year" written in Chinese, which made it a unique Chinese New Year in a foreign country.
burning with passion
CNN Sports:
What are some of the unforgettable experiences you've had during this stay?
Shen Mengyu:
A match at the Park, home of Celtic men's soccer, struck me as a particularly emotional one. A month before the match, everyone started counting down the days.
Previously, we had played at other fields, but never made an appearance at the Park. The first reaction to learning that we would be playing at that venue was, "Really?" Then the question was asked, "Against which team?" Since only one game was played here that year, everyone cherished and looked forward to the opportunity.
The stadium is spacious and can accommodate a large number of fans. There were about 4,000 to 5,000 spectators for the day's game, much more than usual. It all felt extraordinarily different to play soccer. There was a lot of banging and drumming in the stadium, which was a new experience for me (laughs).
Shen Mengyu spends quality time with enthusiastic Chinese fans. Image from: Shen Mengyu's personal social platform
CNN Sports:
How did it feel to win the League Cup with Celtic Ladies? What does it mean for your career?
Shen Mengyu:
The finals came and naturally went towards the goal of the championship. However, it still felt incredible to actually get the title. At that moment, I realized that I really did it.
On the day of the final, there was a huge crowd. After the game, we celebrated with the fans and did our signature dance, which was a wonderful feeling.
It's a great start for me to have achieved this early in my stay. This championship has also given me a great deal of encouragement and made me even more eager to win every game after this one.
advance bravely
CNN Sports:
Do you often get support from Chinese fans abroad?
Shen Mengyu:
Indeed. I remember a lovely Chinese fan who came to almost every game to watch me. Later, when she was going back to her country, she gave me a booklet containing photos of me at different times, with great care.
My teammates were very envious when they saw it and teased each other, "Look at the other fans". In addition, many Chinese fans over here also said that they would definitely come to cheer for me whenever they were free. This makes me feel warm.
Letters sent by passionate fans. Image from: Shen Mengyu's personal social platform
Life in soccer
CNN Sports:
How did you get involved with soccer as a child and go on to play professionally? Did you have a favorite player?
Shen Mengyu:
The elementary school near my home was a special school for soccer, with a strong soccer atmosphere and many star players often came to the school for exchanges. At that time, I still used to play soccer with a group of boys.
I do love the feeling of playing soccer, it's a great feeling to be in a team, working together towards a goal and celebrating together when you win.
Later, after discussing with my parents, I decided to pursue professional soccer. My father was more sensible and after analyzing all the factors for me, he let me make my own decision.
I especially like Modric, and I also enjoyed watching Wu Lei play when I was a kid, when he was still playing for Shanghai Dongya. I think he's very good, scores a lot of goals, is energetic on the field, and is a role model to follow. I also admire his courageous decision to stay abroad, which requires a lot of courage.
Image from: Shen Mengyu's personal social platform
(of a ship) set sail on a dream
CNN Sports:
How did you choose to stay abroad? How did you take this step?
Shen Mengyu:
The idea of staying abroad has been in my mind for a long time. It just so happened that Celtic gave me this opportunity and I thought I could give it a try.
Before I stayed in the ocean, I discussed with my Shanghai teammates the difference between staying in the ocean and playing at home, and carefully analyzed the pros and cons. They also said that if you are young, you should dare to try.
However, I don't think staying abroad is for everyone, and it's important to be clear about what you want before taking this step and then make a decision. For me, physical confrontation is an area where I am lacking, and the league here is very intense, so I want to come and try to make up for my shortcomings.
looking forward
CNN Sports:
What are your expectations and plans for the future?
Shen Mengyu:
There is no one who does not want to wear "China Red", I hope I can wear the uniform of the women's national soccer team, and compete for the glory of the country on the field.
However, right now I need to work on closing the gap with my teammates, and I will continue to work hard in order to realize this dream!
