Leicester City winger Alisha Lehmann has responded to criticism regarding her off-field activities, particularly her prominent presence on social media, and clarified her reasons for leaving Como Women earlier this season. The 27-year-old Swiss international addressed the concerns in an interview with BBC Sport, emphasizing her dedication to professional football despite her large online following.
Lehmann, who completed a permanent transfer to Leicester City in January 2026, currently boasts over 16 million followers on Instagram and 11.8 million on TikTok. This substantial online presence has led to accusations of prioritizing social media over her career, a claim she vehemently denies. “Sometimes, it’s frustrating,” Lehmann told BBC Sport. “People don’t notice the operate that I put in. They think I just train and then go home to make TikToks – it’s not true. I’m incredibly professional. I always give everything on the pitch and I aim for to be the best. If I’ve not done my best when I check my data after training, I will do extra rounds to try to improve. People can think what they want but everything I do is focused on being the best player I can be.”
The forward’s journey to Leicester has been a winding one, encompassing stops at BSC YB Frauen, West Ham United, Aston Villa, Juventus, and Como. Her career began at FC Konolfingen in 2008 before joining BSC YB Frauen in 2011, where she quickly established herself as a prolific goalscorer. She then moved to West Ham United in 2018, gaining experience in the FA Women’s Super League.
Lehmann’s recent move to Leicester City came after a brief stint with Como, a transfer that initially raised eyebrows. She revealed that her time in Italy was short-lived, as she quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. “I signed a long-term contract with Como, but after a month I realized that I didn’t like it and wanted to return to England,” she explained. “I adore being here, the football is better, and England feels like home.”
The decision to return to the WSL, and specifically to Leicester City, was driven by a desire to be in a competitive environment where she feels valued and can contribute meaningfully. Leicester City, currently battling to avoid relegation, presented an opportunity for Lehmann to showcase her abilities and prove her commitment to the sport. According to information available from Leicester City’s official website, Lehmann’s contract with the club runs until the summer of 2028.
Lehmann’s passion for football, she insists, is unwavering. She recounted a period earlier in her career when the negativity surrounding her online presence almost led her to quit the game. “When I was younger, it affected me more because I didn’t know how to handle the situation,” she confessed. “There were moments where I was really sad and I used to ask my mum if I could not play football anymore. Football is the thing I love the most and it’s what I have put the most time into. I rest so well, I sleep every afternoon and I would never do anything before training or a game that would affect how I play. I care so much about it.”
Beyond the pitch, Lehmann’s personal life has also been subject to public scrutiny, including the recent end of her relationship with Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz. She is now in a relationship with television personality Montel McKenzie. However, she remains focused on her career and determined to silence her critics through her performances.
As of November 18, 2025, according to her Wikipedia page, Lehmann has made 65 appearances for the Switzerland national team, scoring 10 goals. She continues to represent her country while also focusing on her club duties with Leicester City. Her versatility as a forward makes her a valuable asset to both teams.
The Swiss international’s arrival at Leicester City has been met with enthusiasm by fans and teammates alike. She made her debut for the club on March 23, 2026, and will be looking to make a significant impact as the season progresses. The team will rely on her experience and goal-scoring ability as they fight to maintain their place in the WSL.
Lehmann’s story is a testament to her resilience and determination. She has faced criticism and adversity, but she remains committed to her craft and focused on achieving her goals. Her message to those who doubt her is clear: she is a professional footballer and she will continue to prove it on the pitch.
Leicester City’s next fixture is against Tottenham Hotspur on March 29, 2026, at the King Power Stadium. This match will be a crucial test for Lehmann and her teammates as they continue their battle against relegation. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM GMT (1:00 PM EST).
