Emil Forsberg launched his professional football career in 2009 with his hometown club GIF Sundsvall before evolving into a creative attacking midfielder. Over a decade later, the Swedish international earned the prestigious Guldbollen in 2021, distinguishing himself as the nation’s top performer through his technical precision, effective passing, and ability to influence matches at the highest European levels.
Early Development and Domestic Success
Forsberg began as a regular starter for GIF Sundsvall in the second-tier Superettan, eventually securing promotion to the Allsvenskan after a 2011 campaign where he tallied 11 goals. In 2013, he transferred to Malmö FF, where he played a central role in consecutive league title victories. During his tenure at Malmö, he gained exposure to continental competition, appearing in both the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Champions League group stages, and earning recognition as the league's top midfielder.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Tenure at RB Leipzig
Moving to Germany in 2015, Forsberg became a cornerstone of RB Leipzig. During the 2016-17 season, he led the Bundesliga in assists with 22, securing a spot on the league’s team of the season. His European contributions included scoring the club's first-ever Champions League goal in 2017 and netting the winning goal against Paris Saint-Germain in 2020. By the time he departed in 2023, he had accumulated significant milestones, including scoring the club's 1000th goal.
International Representation
Forsberg debuted for the Sweden senior national team in 2014 and earned 92 caps through 2025. He was pivotal in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where his goal against Switzerland propelled Sweden into the quarter-finals. At UEFA Euro 2020, he set a national record by scoring four goals in a single tournament, exceeding the tallies previously held by Tomas Brolin and Henrik Larsson.
Transition to Major League Soccer
In December 2023, the New York Red Bulls announced the acquisition of Forsberg. He signed a contract extending through 2026, with an option for an additional year. He debuted for the club in February 2024 and registered his first league goal and assist in a match against FC Dallas shortly thereafter.
Fast facts
- Born: 1991, Sundsvall
- Citizenship: Sweden
- Professional debut: 2009
- Guldbollen winner: 2021
- Swedish Midfielder of the Year: 2016, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022
- Total international caps: 92
- Total international goals: 21
- New York Red Bulls signing: 2023
Questions readers ask
What is the highest individual honor Emil Forsberg has received?
He was awarded the Guldbollen in 2021 as the best footballer in Sweden.
Which record did Forsberg set during UEFA Euro 2020?
He became the only Swedish player to score four goals in a single UEFA European Championship tournament.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
