At just 22 years old, Emily Whelan already boasts plenty of experience on what it means to be a City player. The forward has been putting that on display as we continue to prepare for the start of the Scottish Women's Premier League season next week.
The Republic of Ireland international is one of our current longest-serving players, with this being her fourth season since joining The Original Trailblazers back in the summer of 2022.
Her first season in Scotland ended with her lifting a league title, and is one of only eight players remaining from the squad that lifted City's last trophy two years ago.
Having lived it herself, Whelan knows that winning is part of City's identity and she hopes to pass that on to those around her as Leanne Ross and her side prepare to compete on four fronts in the 2025/26 campaign.
Our league season starts at Petershill Park on Sunday 17th August when we host Motherwell.
"Coming back to the club for a new season and seeing the girls is always great," Whelan said. "It's always like coming back home again.
"It's good to see new players come in and I like to try and help the new girls on and off the pitch. So, my role stays the same in that I just keep working hard and try to help those around me.
"Everyone here knows what it means to be a City player and that means winning. I've been here for a while now and I've experienced that, but I'm always still learning from the players we've got here and the ones coming in."
With the new season approaching, Whelan reflected on a pre-season which has seen City play a varied opposition in Scotland and England, with our final friendly taking place this weekend against Women's Super League 2 side Sheffield United.
"It's been tough, but we're kicking on and getting ready for the season to start," Whelan explained. "We're working hard and come Motherwell we will be raring to go.
"I'm just looking forward to getting back into it, playing competitive games, winning matches and scoring goals. Hopefully, we can start the season well and bring home the results.
"Every opposition we've played in pre-season has been different, but we always have the same aim: to score goals and to put in a performance that represents us as a team.
"By using the different strategies we've got and putting them into practice, it'll prepare us well for the teams we'll face during the season."
Ahead of the new season, a touch of home has joined Whelan at City, with fellow Republic of Ireland international Erín McLaughlin arriving at the club.
The pair, who are now flatmates, came up through the same age groups at youth international level and have since been capped respectively with the senior team. A full circle moment to now be playing their domestic football together.
"It's great having Erín around," Whelan said. "She definitely helps with the home vibe. We get on great and it is lovely living with her and playing with her.
"She can bring a lot to the team. She is very talented and a very technical player. I think she fits in really well. I'm just excited to see her shine throughout the season."
Don't miss Emily, Erín and their City teammates in action on the opening day of the SWPL season - we host Motherwell on Sunday 17th August at Petershill Park. Get your season ticket or match ticket on Fanbase now!