Autor: Kristina Němcová (@stinanemcova)
Kosovare Asllani is not only one of the most prominent football players in Sweden, but also an inspirational figure for young athletes around the world. Although she was born in Kristianstad, Sweden, in 1989, her roots trace back to Kosovo, from where her parents fled the war in 1988. She spent her early childhood in Kristianstad, but the family soon moved to Vimmerby, the hometown of Pippi Longstocking author Astrid Lindgren, where Kosovare started her football career.
Kosovare's parents, both very active in helping war refugees, played a significant role in shaping her life story. Her mother worked as a preschool teacher, and her father as a translator, which was much needed during those difficult times. Kosovare grew up in a family that placed great emphasis on education and humanitarian values.
Vimmerby, where the family settled, today has a training field named in her honor, which serves young female and male footballers. It was here that she started playing football at the age of just six. However, like many Swedish children, she also participated in other sports during her childhood. There was a real possibility that she could have worn the Tre Kronor jersey, as she also played ice hockey.
At a young age, she moved to Linköping, where she signed her first professional contract, marking the beginning of her journey as one of Sweden's most influential football figures. At that time, Linköping was one of the top teams in Damallsvenskan, which brought her into the spotlight. With the club, she won two Swedish championship titles and met Caroline Seger, from whom Kosovare later took over the captain's armband for the national team.
Kosovare made her debut in Sweden’s top league in 2007 when she played a match against Göteborg (now BK Häcken). Even though Linköping lost 2-1, her talent was undeniable. This shows how quickly her career took off on international soil. She first moved to Paris, where she joined PSG. Interestingly, she was introduced on the same day as Zlatan Ibrahimović, although her arrival did not attract the same media attention. After a brief period in France, she continued her career in the English league with Manchester City, then moved to Spanish giants Real Madrid, and later to AC Milan. Currently, she plays for the English team London City Lionesses, where she became the first player of the club to score a goal in the top league — this happened on September 6 at Emirates against Arsenal.
On the international stage, Kosovare established herself as one of the key players and leaders of the Swedish national team. She has two bronze medals from the World Cup and two silver medals from the Olympics. She has etched her name in the history of women's football not only for her scoring ability but also for her leadership role on the field. After Caroline Seger’s retirement, Kosovare took over as captain of the national team and became a symbol of Swedish football culture.
In addition to her sporting success, Kosovare Asllani is seen as a role model not only for young footballers. Her story has inspired the creation of several children's books in Sweden, showcasing the importance of perseverance and believing in one's abilities. Kosovare is also known for her humility and responsibility regarding her public image — her life is a great example of success without scandals or controversies.
Although she is an important figure in women’s football, she has not forgotten her roots. On her body, you will find a tattoo of the Albanian eagle, a symbol of her heritage, and for her contribution to strengthening the relationship between Sweden and Kosovo, she received a medal for meritorious service from the President of Kosovo.
Today, Kosovare Asllani not only shines on the football fields but has also become an important ambassador for children and young women who can be inspired by her story and sporting achievements. She said before Euro 2025 that it would be her last major tournament. Unfortunately, despite scoring a goal in the quarter-final against England, she did not end her career with a Euro medal. Even so, she can still be considered extremely successful.
