Manchester United Women have announced the signing of Swedish forward Fridolina Rolfo from Barcelona. Rolfo brings a wealth of experience and success, having won multiple league titles and Champions League crowns. She terminated her contract with Barca to join Manchester United on a two-year deal, aiming to help the team excel in the WSL and Champions League.
Manchester United Women have officially announced the signing of Swedish forward Fridolina Rolfo, a move that underscores the club's ambition to compete at the highest levels of European football. Rolfo, who recently departed from Barcelona, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, making her a significant addition to Marc Skinner’s squad.
Rolfo's journey to Manchester United is marked by impressive achievements across Europe's top leagues. Prior to her stint with Barcelona, she played for Wolfsburg in the Frauen-Bundesliga, where she clinched the league title once and secured the DFB-Pokal Frauen twice. Her time in Germany established her as a versatile and dynamic player capable of impacting games both in attack and defense.
In 2021, Rolfo made the move to Barcelona, a club renowned for its dominance in women's football. During her tenure with the Catalan giants, she further cemented her reputation as a world-class player. Rolfo played a pivotal role in Barcelona's four league title victories and their remarkable run to four Champions League finals. Notably, she was instrumental in Barcelona's back-to-back Champions League triumphs in 2022-23 and 2023-24, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stage.
Over her four seasons with Barcelona, Rolfo demonstrated her offensive prowess, contributing to 51 goals (27 goals and 24 assists). Her attacking output ranked sixth-highest among Barcelona players during that period, trailing only Caroline Graham Hansen (97), Claudia Pina (79), Aitana Bonmati (75), Alexia Putellas (74), and Asisat Oshoala (53). These statistics underscore her importance to Barcelona's attacking game and her ability to create and convert scoring opportunities.
Despite having a year remaining on her contract with Barcelona, Rolfo opted to terminate her contract early, signaling her eagerness to embark on a new challenge. Manchester United Women quickly emerged as her preferred destination, and she has now signed a two-year deal with the club. Her decision to join Manchester United reflects her belief in the club's vision and her desire to contribute to their pursuit of silverware.
Speaking to the club's official website, Rolfo expressed her excitement about joining Manchester United and her ambition to replicate her previous success. "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," she stated. Her words convey her determination to make an immediate impact and help the team achieve their goals.
Rolfo also highlighted the allure of the Women’s Super League (WSL), widely regarded as one of the most competitive leagues in the world. "The WSL is probably the strongest league in the world right now, so that was a big part of the appeal of coming here, as well as the chance to help the team establish itself in the Champions League," she explained. Her recognition of the WSL's strength underscores her desire to test herself against the best players and teams in the world.
Manchester United Women are set to kick off their WSL campaign with a home match against Leicester City on September 7. Before that, they face a crucial Champions League qualifier against PSV on August 27. Rolfo’s arrival provides a significant boost to the squad as they prepare for these important fixtures. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable as the team aims to make a strong start to the season and compete for a Champions League spot.
The signing of Fridolina Rolfo represents a major coup for Manchester United Women. Her arrival not only enhances the team's attacking options but also brings a winning mentality and a wealth of experience that will benefit the entire squad. As Manchester United Women look to challenge for major honors, Rolfo is poised to play a central role in their ambitions.