Seventy international caps for Sweden define the career of Albin Ekdal, a defensive midfielder who spent sixteen years playing abroad before returning to his home city of Stockholm. Beginning his professional trajectory with Brommapojkarna in 2007, he moved through the ranks of European leagues, securing more than 300 appearances in the Italian Serie A across multiple clubs.
Early Development and Italian Tenure
After debuting in the 2007 Allsvenskan season, Ekdal signed a four-year contract with Juventus in May 2008. His path in Italy included a loan to Siena and a shared ownership arrangement with Bologna. By 2011, he joined Cagliari on a three-year deal worth 3 million euros, where he eventually scored a hat-trick against Inter Milan in September 2014.
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In July 2015, Ekdal transitioned to Germany, joining Hamburger SV for 4.5 million euros on a four-year contract. He wore the number 20 shirt for the club, recording 57 appearances. His tenure in Germany concluded after the team suffered relegation to the 2. Bundesliga in 2018, having fought to maintain top-flight status throughout his stay.
Return to Italy and Final Years
Returning to Italy in August 2018, he joined Sampdoria before signing a two-year contract with Spezia in July 2022. By the end of 2023, he moved back to Sweden to sign with Djurgårdens IF, the club he supported as a youth. He officially retired from professional football on 28 November 2025.
International Service
Ekdal made his senior national team debut against Ukraine in August 2011. He represented Sweden at three major tournaments: UEFA Euro 2016, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and UEFA Euro 2020. His final international appearance occurred on 20 November 2023, where he captained the side during a qualifier against Estonia at the Friends Arena.
Fast facts
- Born: 28 July 1989, Stockholm
- Professional debut: 2007
- Final club: Djurgårdens IF
- International caps: 70
- Father: Lennart Ekdal
- Brother: Hjalmar Ekdal
- Retirement date: 28 November 2025
Questions readers ask
Which major tournaments did Albin Ekdal play in?
He represented Sweden at UEFA Euro 2016, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and UEFA Euro 2020.
Did he play for clubs outside of Italy?
Yes, he spent three seasons with the German club Hamburger SV between 2015 and 2018.
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