Smilla Holmberg: Arsenal’s Rising Star Faces Sexist Abuse After Transfer

Smilla Holmberg, the 19-year-vintage Swedish right-back who recently joined Arsenal from Hammarby IF, has been the target of sexist abuse following the club’s announcement of her signing. The incident prompted Arsenal to remove the social media post, highlighting the ongoing issue of online harassment faced by female athletes.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Born on October 11, 2006, in Stockholm, Sweden, Holmberg began her football journey with Hammarby IF at the age of seven. She quickly progressed through the club’s youth academy, making her senior debut at just 15 years old in 2022. Before focusing on football, she had explored other sports according to her Wikipedia profile.

Club Success with Hammarby IF

Holmberg spent time with Älvsjö AIK in 2022 before fully committing to Hammarby IF. She played a crucial role in the club’s success, contributing to Damallsvenskan and Svenska Cupen titles in 2023 and 2025. During the 2025 season, she showcased her attacking prowess, scoring four goals and providing one assist in the opening four league matches. In total, she made 67 appearances for Hammarby, scoring 8 goals as detailed on Arsenal.com.

Move to Arsenal

On January 5, 2026, Arsenal announced the signing of Holmberg, bringing her to the Women’s Super League. Arsenal.com notes that she joined the club in the January transfer window. She currently wears the number 31 shirt for the Gunners.

International Career

Holmberg has represented Sweden at various youth levels, including the U17, U19, and U23 teams. She made her senior debut for the Swedish national team against Italy in the UEFA Women’s Nations League in May 2025. She was also part of the Sweden squad for the UEFA European Women’s Championship in the summer of 2025, playing in three matches as Sweden reached the quarter-finals. As of January 6, 2026, she has 11 international caps and one goal according to her Wikipedia profile.

Response to Sexist Abuse

Following Arsenal’s social media announcement, Holmberg was subjected to a barrage of sexist comments. The club was forced to remove the post in response. Holmberg acknowledged the incident, stating that while she didn’t observe all the comments, “In an ideal world it would not have existed. The men also have to put up with a lot that has nothing to do with football.”

Social Media Presence

Holmberg maintains an active presence on social media, with an Instagram account (@smilla.holmberg) where she shares updates on her career and personal life.