Nadine Nischler is living her dream.

Nadine Nischler's steep rise: "I'm surprised myself"

Alongside Eva Schatzer, she is currently the best female football player from South Tyrol: We are talking about Nadine Nischler, who had a fantastic first half of the year in Serie A. We spoke to the 24-year-old about her rapid rise, the future and much more.

19 December 2024

From: dl

Last year she played in Serie C for Merano and was the outstanding player there with 40 goals. In the summer she moved to Serie A club Como. With 7 goals from 13 games, Nischler is second in the league's goalscoring list - and that in her debut season. "It's simply indescribable. I'm surprised myself. I had hoped that I would be able to play my first minutes this year. I definitely didn't expect it to go so well," explained Nischler in the SportNews-Conversation.

In Serie A, the rhythm and tempo are of course much higher than in the two classes below. "More is also required in terms of technique and tactics. In addition, the structures in the club are of course more professional," says Nischler. Como got new investors in the summer, with whom women's football was restructured in the club. The aim is to challenge the big clubs like Roma, Juventus, Inter and Milan in the long term.

Nadine Nischler (here with Eva Schatzer) with the national team.

When things are going well, things are going well: At the end of November, Nischler was called up for the Italian national team for the first time. She remained on the bench for the 2-1 win against Germany, but if she continues to perform like this, her first appearances are only a matter of time. "Just being nominated was an indescribable feeling for me. But I'm fully focused on Como." The rest will follow naturally. The European Championships in Switzerland next summer are of course on Nischler's agenda.

The new life

Her club's training center is located exactly between Como and Milan. In the summer months, Nischler can enjoy the benefits of the famous Lake Como. On the other hand, a trip to the big city of Milan is of course always possible. "I don't lack for leisure activities. I was also well received here at the club and was never seen as a Serie C player," explained the Naturno native.

Nadine Nischler also enjoys the leisure activities on offer.

In terms of sport, Serie A has caught up a lot in recent years. For three years now, the highest Italian league has been considered a professional league. The Serie A clubs are also causing a stir internationally. "The level can now be compared to that of the German Bundesliga. Perhaps the German league is – as things stand – a little better," explained Nischler.

“In Italy, you can live well on your salary as a professional player, but only during your career.” Nadine Nischler

The big money can be earned in France, Spain and England, although it can never be compared to the salaries in men's football. "These amounts are of course completely exaggerated. In Italy, you can live well on your salary as a professional player, but only during your career. So you have to build up a second source of income. I have already completed my training as a payroll clerk," says the woman from Lower Vinschgau, who previously worked in an office in Merano.

And what does the future hold for Nischler? After all, she is only 24 years old: "For me, a dream has already come true. I am very happy here at the moment and have big plans for the club. Of course, you never know what the future will bring." She does not have a particular favorite club. But one thing is certain: if her rise continues like this, anything is possible in the future.