1. FC Union Berlin have signed their next defender in Ida Heikkinen. Like her former and new teammate, Elli Seiro, the 18-year-old is moving to Köpenick from Finland's FC Honka.

Experience belying her youth

After leaving her first club, FC Wild, and joining the youth department of FC Honka, it quickly became clear that the club from the Finnish capital had another talent in its ranks. As early as July 2021 – at the age of 14 – Ida made her debut for the professional team and made the permanent step up to the first team at the beginning of 2022. She quickly found her feet there, playing 22 games and making nine appearances for the Finnish U17 national team.

In the following two years, the defender established herself as an important part of the first team, and is now leaving home with 50 competitive games under her belt, scoring twice, as well as 24 international appearances for various Finnish youth teams.

Three facts about Ida:

• Ida not only played with forward Elli Seiro at FC Honka, but the two were also often together on duty for Finland.
• She was part of the Finnish squad for the U17 European Championship in the summer of 2022.
• Ida was also an occasional captain for FC Honka.

The views on the transfer

“Of course, the first move abroad is always special. But I'm very happy and full of anticipation, said a delighted Heikkinen on her move to Union. “The management at 1. FC Union Berlin have been very keen on me, and of course I've already spoken to Elli. Now I'm looking forward to getting to know my new team-mates and I'm excited about the training camp and the first games at the An der Alten Försterei stadium.”

“The fact that Ida has already played so many games at her age definitely speaks for her quality,” was Union’s director of women’s professional football, Jennifer Zietz’s reaction. “The experience gained from numerous international games should not be underestimated and she will further improve our team's quality. The fact that she already knows at least one player, Elli, will certainly benefit her.”