Marbella. Freja Olofsson, 24, is the Swedish substitute at one of the biggest football clubs in the world.
Since last fall, the midfielder has been playing for Real Madrid.
– They’re totally in control, says Olofsson.
Since Real Madrid started its women’s team, there has been at least one Swede in the squad. At first it was Kosovare Aslani and Sofia Jacobson. Now it’s Freja Olofsson.
– Yes, but it’s fun. After all, Real Madrid is a big club and a name. Although the women’s team in particular is quite new and still in development. You feel a little pressure because you have this logo on the shirt.
So who is the Swede at Real Madrid really? The 24-year-old should describe himself:
Physical player, good tactically. I like controlling my teammates, winning the ball and putting my teammates in good attacking positions.
“Take some time to get into everything.”
Olofsson left Sweden and Kev Örebro for Racing Louisville in the USA before being ready to join Real Madrid last fall. Moving to Spain was a change of environment, with challenges both on and off the field.
Playing time was also limited.
– It must have taken a while to get through everything, to find the rhythm. I wish I could have played more than I did. To find some kind of momentum. But at the same time, there is very stiff competition.
When Aslani left Real Madrid last spring, she was highly critical of the Spanish club’s treatment of its players. A criticism that Olofsson doesn’t really recognize.
“total control”
However, there are things I’ve interacted with, such as the fact that she’s restricted when it comes to the media. Both traditional interviews and players’ social platforms.
– They are totally in control of what you put in etc. Which you can probably understand to some extent. It’s a big club and they have a brand they want to keep.
For example, it is not acceptable to post photos from the training facility, locker room or sponsors in any way.
He’ll pass through Real Madrid too, so they’ll have some control, which maybe I wasn’t used to before.
‘Not a young talent’
Olofsson is now in Marbella. The 24-year-old is playing for the Swedish national team for the first time.
– It’s obviously a bit special. Maybe a little nervous. Everyone is very welcome, but you obviously want to do a good job. It just might take a little extra mental effort. Learn what to do on and off the field. But it was good.
Do you feel like a doldis when you first come on like this?
– Yes, but not too much. I’m still 24, almost 25. I’m not a young talent anymore. You feel a bit like doldis. But at the same time, it was my turn to get the chance, so it was fun.