1. Overview
Emmelie Konradsson (Emmelie KonradssonSwedish, born 9 April 1989) is a former Swedish professional footballer who played as a midfielder. She is widely recognized for her significant contributions to Damallsvenskan club Umeå IK and her representation of the Sweden women's national football team. Her career spanned from 2007 to 2014, making an impact through her consistent performance and dedication to the sport.
2. Early Life and Background
Emmelie Konradsson's journey into professional football began with her foundational years in Sweden, which laid the groundwork for her future achievements in the sport.
2.1. Birth and Upbringing
Emmelie Konradsson was born on 9 April 1989, in Sweden. While specific details about her childhood and upbringing are not extensively documented, her early life in Sweden provided the environment for her to develop her football skills, eventually leading her to a professional career.
3. Playing Career
Emmelie Konradsson's professional football career saw her excel both at the club level with Umeå IK and on the international stage with the Sweden women's national team, showcasing her capabilities as a midfielder.
3.1. Club Career
Konradsson joined Umeå IK, a prominent club in the Damallsvenskan (the highest division of women's football in Sweden), in 2007. She established herself as a key midfielder for the club during her tenure, which lasted until 2014. Her commitment to Umeå IK was further solidified when she extended her contract in January 2013, highlighting her importance to the team's dynamics and strategy. During her time at Umeå IK, Konradsson was known for her consistent performance and her ability to control the midfield, contributing to the team's efforts in various competitions.
3.2. International Career
Emmelie Konradsson made her debut for the senior Sweden women's national football team on 22 November 2011, in a match against the Canadian national team, which resulted in a 2-1 loss for Sweden. Her talent and dedication caught the attention of national team coach Pia Sundhage, who favored her playing style. This led to Konradsson's recall to the national squad for the prestigious UEFA Women's Euro 2013 tournament. Ahead of the tournament, she played as a right winger in a friendly match against the Norwegian national team. Her participation in UEFA Women's Euro 2013 was a significant milestone, as Sweden reached the semi-finals of the competition. During this tournament, she played alongside notable teammates such as Lotta Schelin, who served as the team captain, and other key players like Nilla Fischer and Kosovare Asllani, under the guidance of coach Pia Sundhage.
The full squad for the UEFA Women's Euro 2013, under coach Pia Sundhage, included:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Kristin Hammarström Hedvig Lindahl Sofia Lundgren |
| Defenders | Charlotte Rohlin Stina Segerström Amanda Ilestedt Nilla Fischer Sara Thunebro Lina Nilsson Jessica Samuelsson |
| Midfielders | Lisa Dahlkvist Emmelie Konradsson Josefine Öqvist Therese Sjögran Caroline Seger Elin Magnusson Marie Hammarström |
| Forwards | Lotta Schelin (Captain) Kosovare Asllani Sofia Jakobsson Antonia Göransson Olivia Schough Jenny Hjohlman |
| Coach | Pia Sundhage |
4. Retirement
Emmelie Konradsson announced her retirement from professional football in December 2014. At the time of her retirement, she was 25 years old. The decision marked the end of her active playing career, concluding her professional journey in the sport.
5. Legacy and Assessment
Emmelie Konradsson's career, characterized by her consistent presence at a top-tier club like Umeå IK and her representation of the Swedish national team, left a notable mark on Swedish women's football. As a midfielder, she contributed to her teams' collective efforts through her strategic play and disciplined approach. Her involvement in significant events like UEFA Women's Euro 2013 further underscores her contribution to the national team's success and the broader development of women's football in Sweden. Her journey exemplifies dedication to the sport, making her a respected figure among her peers and fans.