The young talent was born and raised in Springfield, Virginia. When she was ten, she moved to the Netherlands, which gave her the choice of playing for America or the Netherlands. “It was certainly not an easy decision,” says the Ajax player. “I have a good relationship with the Netherlands, and the KNVB has been fantastic for me.” Still, Yohannes decided to represent her native country. “America is my home country: many of my family live there. I have a strong bond with the country, and my love for football started there.”
“I have received many nice messages from my teammates, family and friends,” says Yohannes with a smile. “I’m very grateful for that.”
Debut
The midfielder made her debut for the American national team on June 4, 2024. A special moment for Yohannes: “It is something you dream of as a child and to be able to wear the shirt is an honor.” The American crowned her debut with a goal. “To step on the field and score within ten minutes is really a dream scenario.”
Golden Girl Award
Yohannes is one of the ten nominees for the award for best female footballer under 21 years old. “I think it’s super cool,” says the Ajax player. When asked if she thinks she has a chance to win the prize, the American smiles. “I hope so. We’ll see, but I’m grateful for the nomination anyway.”
When she says that it must be fun to be Lily Yohannes, the American laughs: “Yes, it is, I think.”
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