Glasgow City are excited to welcome three time capped Dutch defender Samantha van Diemen from Dutch side Fortuna Sittard on a two-year-deal. The 22 year old centre back has featured at every level for the Netherlands’ Youth National teams along with full senior recognition.
Having come through the Dutch national football association’s academy system Samantha transferred to Ajax in 2018 where she would continue her development.
Samantha was promoted to the first team, just over a year after her arrival in Amsterdam and signed her first professional contract with Ajax at just seventeen years of age learning her trade alongside experienced Dutch National Team defenders Stefanie Van Der Gragt and Kelly Zeeman, making her UEFA Women’s Champions League debut during that time.
In 2021 she moved to the newly created Feyenoord women's side before transferring to Fortuna Sittard in 2022.
Sam on her arrival Glasgow City:
“I was planning to go find some heat in Spain or Italy but Glasgow City came along and so I decided this was the right move for me.”
“I was really convinced about the clubs plans for this season, how the team are going to play, which I think will really suit me as a player, but also how beautiful a place Glasgow was to live in. I’ve only seen a little bit of it so far, but I can see why people think that.”
“I’ve never won a title before, that’s why I came here. I want to win trophies.”
Quote from Glasgow City Head Coach Leanne Ross on signing Sam:
"The signing of Sam, a centre back with an impressive club and international resume, as well as a bright and promising future in the game, is a real coup for the club. Her playing style and personal qualities align perfectly with our ambitions and values, and I am excited to see what she can achieve in her Glasgow City career.”
"Sam exudes calmness and composure in possession, whilst offering strength and bravery in her defensive actions. She is confident in possession under pressure and will support the team to build from the back with her excellent range of passing and ability to step forward with the ball. Samantha’s physical attributes and reading of the game allow her to compete and win duels, aspects which will strengthen us defensively as a team.
"I am delighted to welcome a player of Sam’s talent and experience to the club. As well as adding to our quality and capabilities on the pitch, Sam’s winning mentality and leadership skills are an added bonus to the team for the challenges of the season ahead."