Manchester United Women have secured one of the summer’s most significant transfers by signing Sweden international Fridolina Rolfö from Barcelona on a contract until June 2027. The 31-year-old joins as a free agent after mutually terminating her Barcelona contract one year early.
The signing represents a major statement of intent from Manchester United as they prepare for another campaign in the Women’s Super League and their upcoming Champions League qualifying rounds.
Proven Winner Arrives at Old Trafford
Rolfö brings an impressive trophy cabinet to Manchester United, having won two UEFA Champions League titles and four Primera División crowns during her four-year stay at Barcelona. The versatile left-sided player, equally comfortable in attack or defence, has accumulated 313 senior club appearances and scored 113 goals throughout her career.
Her international credentials are equally impressive. Rolfö recently celebrated her 100th cap for Sweden at the UEFA European Championship in Switzerland, marking the milestone with a goal against Germany. She has netted 33 times in her international career, establishing herself as one of Sweden’s most reliable performers.
📕 A new chapter awaits.
Fridolina Rolfo is a Red! 🔴
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) August 15, 2025
Strategic Addition for Champions League Push
Manchester United finished third in last season’s Women’s Super League, securing Champions League qualification for the second consecutive year. The addition of Rolfö significantly strengthens their squad depth and provides manager Marc Skinner with tactical flexibility across multiple competitions.
Matt Johnson, director of women’s football at Manchester United, expressed his delight with the acquisition. “Fridolina is one of the most talented and successful players in the women’s game, both at club and international level,” Johnson stated. “She will add quality and experience to our squad, and the winning mentality of someone with over 20 major honours and 100 international caps.”
The signing demonstrates Manchester United’s ambition to compete at the highest level in both domestic and European competition, particularly as they face a challenging Champions League second-round qualifier against PSV on 27th August.
Tactical Versatility Key Asset
Rolfö’s ability to perform effectively as either a left-back or left-winger provides Skinner with valuable tactical options. Her pace, directness, and eye for goal from wide positions should enhance United’s attacking threat, whilst her defensive experience offers reliable cover when required.
The Sweden international previously excelled at VfL Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich before her successful Barcelona stint, demonstrating her adaptability across different playing styles and leagues. Her arrival follows the earlier signing of compatriot Julia Zigiotti Olme from Bayern Munich, creating a strong Swedish contingent at the club.
Player Perspective on Move
Rolfö expressed her excitement about joining the Manchester United project. “It’s really exciting to be joining Manchester United, not just because of the size and history of the club, but also to become part of the journey the club is on in the women’s game,” she explained.
“I have been fortunate to enjoy lots of success at Barcelona and other clubs I have played for, and now I want the same at Manchester United. The WSL is probably the strongest league in the world right now, so that was a big part of the appeal of coming here.”
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Looking Ahead to New Season
Manchester United begin their 2025/26 Women’s Super League campaign at home against Leicester City on 7th September, with the match broadcast live on Sky Sports. They face a challenging opening month, meeting Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea within their first five fixtures.
The club’s immediate focus remains on their Champions League qualifier against PSV, where Rolfö could make her competitive debut. Success in that tie would secure passage to the group stages of Europe’s premier women’s club competition.
The moment it became official! ✍️😍 pic.twitter.com/XSqREb9kEI
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) August 15, 2025
With the addition of Rolfö’s experience and winning mentality, Manchester United appear well-positioned to challenge for their first major trophy since claiming the 2023/24 Women’s FA Cup. The Swedish international’s arrival signals the club’s serious intent to establish themselves among England’s elite women’s football clubs.
