Smilla Holmberg has been named on the ten-player shortlist for the 2026 Golden Girl award, Arsenal announced on October 16. The Sweden international's nomination follows her first year at the club and appearances in several roles beyond right-back.
Contributions after joining in January
Holmberg moved from Hammarby in January and made her debut five days later in a goalless draw with Manchester United at the Emirates. Arsenal records three goals in 29 appearances.
Her September stoppage-time equaliser against United is among those contributions. It is a past result providing context for the nomination rather than a newly played match.
Initially signed as a right-back, she has also featured in midfield and on the wing, demonstrating the versatility highlighted in the club's announcement.
A shortlist rather than an award result
The other nominees include Alara, Iman Beney, Veerle Buurman, Giulia Galli, Azzurra Gallo, Maeline Mendy, Sydney Schertenleib, Felicia Schroder and Clara Serrajordi. No winner is established by their selection.
Golden Girl recognises leading under-21 players in Europe's top leagues and began in 2022. The club says the winner is usually announced in early November, with a celebration later in December.
After Michelle Agyemang won last year, a Holmberg victory would give Arsenal consecutive winners. The club also identifies the possibility of a first defender winning. Both remain conditional outcomes.
For Holmberg, the immediate development is recognition through nomination; her next matches and the eventual award decision remain separate matters.