Smilla Holmberg, 19, from Stockholm, Sweden, has rapidly established herself as one of the most exciting young defenders in European football. She spent an outstanding 13 years at Hammarby, having joined the club at just seven years old. Playing primarily as a right-back, Holmberg progressed through the ranks and remained a key figure in the senior squad until the age of 19, before completing a move to Arsenal.
During her time in Sweden, Holmberg collected significant domestic honours, helping Hammarby win the Damallsvenskan (Swedish league) in 2023, as well as the Svenska Cupen in 2023 and 2025. Renowned for her pace, technical ability, and high-intensity footwork, she made her senior debut in 2022 and went on to record 96 appearances for Hammarby before signing for Arsenal on 5 January 2026.
A modern right-back, Holmberg is widely praised for her tactical intelligence, attacking mindset, and powerful overlapping runs. She quickly made a name for herself in Swedish football, and at just 19 years old, took the next step by joining the Women’s Super League (WSL). Her rise has been remarkable—she made her senior debut at only fifteen years old, highlighting her early breakthrough and exceptional potential.
In 2025, Holmberg further cemented her status as a player to watch during the UEFA Women’s European Championship. Despite her young age, she showed composure and maturity on the international stage, contributing with goals and disciplined performances that underlined her commitment and confidence at the highest level.
Holmberg made her Arsenal debut on 10 January, just five days after signing, coming on in the 83rd minute as a substitute for Emily Fox. Although she played only 14 minutes (including added time), she immediately made an impact—driving forward from the right flank and actively seeking to create scoring opportunities, demonstrating her fearlessness and attacking intent.
Since joining Arsenal, Holmberg has consistently shown she is ready for top-level football. Her early WSL appearances reflect her eagerness to contribute offensively, particularly with dangerous deliveries from the right side of the penalty area. Transitioning into the WSL at such a young age—while already carrying international experience—is a remarkable achievement, and she has quickly earned admiration from fans for her energy and influence on the game.
One standout moment in her young career was her first international goal for Sweden during the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, where she scored against Germany in the group stage to give Sweden a crucial 2–1 lead, helping secure a strong and dominant position in the group.
Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers has praised Holmberg for her versatility, athleticism, and long-term potential. Holmberg herself has described her move to Arsenal as a “dream come true,” expressing her desire to help the club win titles, score goals, and continue developing as part of a world-class squad.
When asked about her playing style, Holmberg told Arsenal TV, “I’m a player that likes to play with a lot of intensity and courage. I like to be part of the game higher up the pitch and creating chances. I love the one-against-one situations, both offensively and defensively, so I try to balance the offensive and defensive parts of my game. I like to play with speed and enjoy those one-against-one duels.”
With her exceptional talent, tactical awareness, and experience at such a young age—including 96 senior appearances for club and country—Smilla Holmberg is undoubtedly a player to watch. Her growth trajectory suggests she has the tools to build a lasting legacy at both club and international level.
