Key Contract Extensions and Coaching Moves Shape Swedish Football in 2025

December 31, 2025 10:19pm

Jonna Andersson extends with Linköping despite relegation, while Henrik Rydström takes MLS head coach role, marking significant shifts in Swedish football.

Key details

• Jonna Andersson extends contract with Linköping until 2030 despite relegation to eliteettan.
• Mia Eriksson praises Andersson as a professional role model for youth players.
• Henrik Rydström becomes head coach of MLS club Columbus Crew, his first role outside Sweden.
• Rydström led Malmö FF to Swedish championships in 2023 and 2024 before dismissal in September.

Two major developments have captured attention in Swedish football as 2025 comes to a close. Jonna Andersson, a seasoned Swedish national team player with 112 caps, has extended her contract with Linköping until 2030. Despite the club's relegation from damallsvenskan to eliteettan, Andersson expressed strong motivation and loyalty, stating the continuation "feels completely right" and that she is eager to help the team regain its top-league status. Mia Eriksson, Linköping's sports director, praised Andersson's professionalism and her role as a model for younger players.

Concurrently, Henrik Rydström has embarked on a new chapter by becoming head coach of MLS side Columbus Crew. This appointment marks his first coaching position outside Sweden. Rydström, 49, previously led Malmö FF to Swedish championship victories in 2023 and 2024 before being dismissed in September. Reports confirmed his near-finalized deal with Columbus Crew on New Year's Eve, now officially confirmed by Sportbladet.

These moves highlight a dynamic period for Swedish football, emphasizing player loyalty amid club challenges and the international opportunities opening for Swedish coaches. Andersson's commitment aims to inspire Linköping's resurgence while Rydström's transition to MLS signals growing recognition of Swedish coaching talent abroad.

This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.