“From Manchester to LA: Katie Zelem Embraces New Challenges with Angel City”

**Katie Zelem of Angel City: ‘I Woke Up Last Week and Thought: Oh My God, I Live in LA’** Katie Zelem, the England international and former captain of Manchester United, is embracing a new chapter in her career as she joins Angel City FC in Los Angeles. Reflecting on her transition, Zelem recalls a summer moment that might have caught the attention of passersby in Manchester. While out walking her dog, onlookers could have spotted her and fellow Lionesses teammate Laura Coombs engaged in one-on-one training drills. Coombs, who was working hard to recover from an injury ahead of pre-season with Manchester City, agreed to help Zelem stay fit as she navigated her options after her contract with Manchester United ended in June. Zelem took the initiative to search for training sessions online, bringing along cones to set up drills. She describes her determination during this period, stating, “I was running up and down every field I could find, keeping as fit as possible.” With several offers on the table, she felt a strong motivation to maintain her fitness, thinking, “Wherever I end up, this is going to benefit me.” However, she acknowledges the challenges of training alone, noting that while running is beneficial, it lacks the sharpness and teamwork that come with regular team practices. “It was a unique situation because I basically had no pre-season,” she adds. Now, as she settles into her new life in Los Angeles, Zelem is excited about the competitive environment of the NWSL and the fresh challenges that lie ahead.