Updated
Real Madrid’s female team is embracing a strategic transformation this summer, marked by the addition of notable Scandinavian players. Under the guidance of Pau Quesada , the team is turning its focus to Scandinavia , a region that has become synonymous with emerging football talent. This summer’s recruitment includes three fresh faces: Danish Sara Holmgaard , and Swedes Hanna Bennison and Bella Andersson .
These newcomers will join existing squad members like Filippa Angeldahl (Swedish) and Signe Bruun (Danish), boosting the Nordic representation within the team to an unprecedented level since its professionalization in 2020. With this growing Nordic identity , Real Madrid is not just enhancing its talent pool, but also shaping a new footballing philosophy characterized by technical skill and tactical understanding.
The shift began after the departure of Alberto Toril , paving the way for Quesada to elevate the squad from the women’s Castilla. The objective is to enhance the team’s performance not only in the F Liga but also in the Champions League , ensuring they adopt a more structured, technical, and physically demanding style of play. Sweden, a pioneer in women’s football, stands out as a viable market compared to England or the U.S., both highly competitive and media-saturated. The Nordic players bring a robust technical foundation and endurance, enabling them to maintain high performance throughout matches.
Top European clubs—such as Wolfsburg , Lyon , and Chelsea —have increasingly tapped into the Scandinavian talent pool in recent years. For Real Madrid, the goal transcends merely acquiring talent; it is about building a cohesive, adaptable unit. The addition of these players minimizes dependence on standout individuals like Athenea del Castillo and Caroline Weir , especially significant following the departure of captain Olga Carmona .
Balance to Improve in Champions
Holmgaard adds defensive solidity and width , while Bennison offers versatility from the midfield. Andersson, standing at 1.83 meters , promises to be a formidable presence in the air. The squad is further enriched by Brazilian talents Yasmim and Antônia Silva , both fresh off their triumph at the Copa América, along with the signing of German players Merle Frohms (goalkeeper) and Sara Däbritz (midfielder).
With this Scandinavian core , Quesada has the framework for a balanced squad aimed at progressing beyond the quarter-finals of the Champions League—a stage previously eluding the team. The ambition is to consistently compete at high levels, moving away from relying solely on individual moments of brilliance, exemplified by their historic 3-1 victory over Barcelona last season—the sectional breakthrough in the league’s history.
Real Madrid, often referred to as the Vikingas , promotes tactical discipline , physical prowess, and an unyielding competitive spirit. As the preseason unfolds, the coach is set to trial his newly assembled squad in a demanding tour of Germany . This tour will feature two rigorous friendlies: the first against Union Berlin on August 17, and the second against reigning champions Bayern Munich on August 21. These matches will not only assess the team’s readiness but also serve as a proving ground for the integration of new signings.
Five Signings for 2025-26:
Sara Holmgaard: Denmark (Bringing, 1999). Defense. She joins from Everton, previously playing for Fortuna Hjorrin and Turbine Potsdam.
Sara Däbritz: Germany (Amberg, 1995). Midfield player. Has experience with PSG, Olympique de Lyon, and Bayern Munich.
Hanna Bennison: Sweden (Lomma, 2002). Midfield player renowned for winning a silver medal with her national team at the Tokyo Olympics.
Bella Andersson: Sweden (Stockholm, 2006). Central player with a notable league and cup victory in Sweden under her belt.
Merle Frohms: Germany (Celle, 1995). Goalkeeper with a history at Wolfsburg, a winner of two Champions League titles and four Bundesligas .