Smilla Holmberg, a 19-year-old footballer, moved from Hammarby to Arsenal, the reigning Champions League champions, at the beginning of 2026. As a newly arrived teenager in London, Holmberg has expressed gratitude for the significant help she has received from her teammate Stina Blackstenius, an 11-year-older Swedish national team player who was recently entrusted as a vice-captain for Sweden. Holmberg described becoming very close to Blackstenius, stating she has become like her adopted child, following her and her partner around, and that having someone who speaks Swedish has meant more than she expected.
she has become like her adopted child, following her and her partner around
having someone who speaks Swedish has meant more than she expected