The 2017 Guldbollen recipient Andreas Granqvist concluded a professional football career in 2021 that spanned six different national leagues. Operating as a centre-back, the Swedish defender emerged from the youth system at Påarps GIF to represent his country at four UEFA European Championships and lead the national squad during their 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign in Russia.
Early Career and European Tenure
Granqvist made his professional debut for Helsingborgs IF in 2004. By 2006, he served as team captain during the club's 2-0 victory over Gefle IF in the Swedish Cup final. His performance eventually led to a move to England, where he joined Wigan Athletic. After an initial loan spell starting in January 2007, he signed a permanent deal before moving to the Dutch Eredivisie with Groningen in 2008. During his time in the Netherlands, he gained attention for his offensive contributions from the back, including two notable 65-metre solo goal runs.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Italian and Russian Leagues
In 2011, Groningen transferred Granqvist to the Italian club Genoa for a fee of €2 million. He spent two seasons in Serie A before moving to the Russian Premier League in 2013 to join Krasnodar. He remained with the Russian side for several years, playing his final match for the club on 13 May 2018. His career eventually circled back to his hometown, as he returned to Helsingborgs IF in 2018 on a 3.5-year contract that transitioned into a role as the club's director of sports.
International Leadership
Granqvist earned 88 caps for the Swedish national team between 2006 and 2021. He succeeded Zlatan Ibrahimović as team captain in July 2016 following an appointment by manager Janne Andersson. His international legacy was anchored by the 2018 World Cup, where he played every minute of Sweden's matches. He scored a penalty against South Korea to secure a Player of the Match award and added another from the spot against Mexico. His final international involvement came in 2021, when he was selected for the Euro 2020 squad despite persistent injury issues.
Fast facts
- Born: 16 April 1985, Helsingborg, Sweden
- Nickname: Granen
- Guldbollen winner: 2017
- Position: Centre-back
- International caps: 88
- Professional retirement: 17 July 2021
- 2018 World Cup captain: Yes
- Current role: Director of sports at Helsingborgs IF
Questions readers ask
Did Andreas Granqvist win the Swedish Footballer of the Year award?
Yes, he was awarded the Guldbollen in 2017.
Which international tournaments did Granqvist represent Sweden in?
He participated in four UEFA European Championships and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
.jpg)
