Janina Leitzig Balances Goalkeeping Duties with Gardening Passion at Manchester United

Manchester United’s newly signed goalkeeper Janina Leitzig has opened up about her passion for gardening, revealing how the hobby helped her during her previous spell at Leicester City as she now prepares for the upcoming season.

Leitzig, a former Germany youth international, joined Manchester United this summer after spending three and a half years at Leicester City. As England braces for its fifth heatwave of 2026, Leitzig reflected on her gardening experiences, particularly how growing vegetables was a source of comfort and pride while living away from home and family.

During her time at Leicester, Leitzig cultivated her own vegetables, including runner beans, which she described as not only enjoyable but also a way to feel connected and less isolated. She explained that gardening is a low-effort activity that offers a valuable break from the rigors of football training and the demands of professional sport. Currently based in Manchester, Leitzig does not yet have a garden of her own but hopes to continue the hobby as part of her lifestyle balance.

Her move to Manchester United marks a significant step in her career, as she prepares to compete in the Women’s Super League (WSL) for the 2026-27 season. The club will be looking to Leitzig to provide strong goalkeeping performances as they aim to improve their standing in one of the most competitive women’s leagues in the world.

Leitzig’s ability to maintain focus on her goalkeeping duties while nurturing a personal interest like gardening highlights her well-rounded approach to life as a professional athlete. This balance may prove beneficial as she adapts to a new environment and higher expectations at Manchester United.

Looking ahead, Manchester United will be keen to see how Leitzig settles into the squad and contributes to their campaign, with the season kickoff fast approaching. Her experiences at Leicester and her grounded personality could be key assets as the club seeks to challenge for honours in the WSL and domestic cup competitions.

For more insights, read the full interview with Janina Leitzig on The Guardian.