Arsenal Women have announced the signing of 19-year-old Swedish right-back Smilla Holmberg from Hammarby IF, marking a major step in the club’s defensive reinforcements.

The young defender, who has already made a name for herself in Sweden and on the international stage, joins Arsenal Women on a long-term contract, continuing the club’s strategy of investing in emerging talent.

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Holmberg’s Journey from Sweden to Arsenal

Smilla Holmberg graduated from the Hammarby IF academy, where she quickly progressed to the first team, amassing an impressive 96 appearances for the club. During her time at Hammarby, Holmberg helped the team secure a league and cup double in 2023, followed by a Swedish Cup victory in 2025.

Holmberg has also represented Sweden at senior level, earning nine caps so far. She played an instrumental role in Sweden’s campaign at Euro 2025, helping the team reach the quarter-finals and demonstrating her defensive maturity on the European stage.

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Excited to Join Arsenal

Holmberg expressed her delight at joining one of Europe’s top women’s football clubs:
“It’s always been my dream to play for Arsenal. This is a very special moment for me and my family,” she said.

She added that the move was about more than personal ambition:
“It’s also about joining a club with the highest standards and a strong winning culture. My ambitions align with the club’s, and I want to help win silverware here.”

Holmberg will wear the number 31 shirt for Arsenal, though the duration of her contract has not yet been disclosed.

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Arsenal Manager Comments

Arsenal manager Renee Slegers welcomed Holmberg to the squad:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Smilla to the club. She’s a very talented young defender who brings versatility and athleticism, with so much potential for development.”

Slegers emphasized Holmberg’s ability to adapt and grow within Arsenal’s system, highlighting the club’s commitment to nurturing young players who can contribute to both domestic and European competitions.

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What Holmberg Brings to Arsenal

• Defensive versatility: Capable of playing across the backline, Holmberg can operate as a traditional right-back or adapt to wing-back roles.
• International experience: Nine senior caps for Sweden, including Euro 2025, giving her exposure to high-pressure international matches.
• Winning mentality: Part of Hammarby IF’s double-winning squad in 2023 and Swedish Cup winners in 2025.
• Youth and potential: At just 19, Holmberg has significant room to develop under Arsenal’s guidance, aligning with the club’s strategy of blending youth with experience.

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Looking Ahead

Holmberg’s arrival strengthens Arsenal Women ahead of a busy season in the FA Women’s Super League, as the club competes domestically and in Europe. Fans will be eager to see how the Swedish teenager adapts to English football and contributes to Arsenal’s ambitions of winning silverware in 2026.