In an interview with EintrachtTV, board member for sport Markus Krösche described new signing Hugo Larsson as “carefree” and a youngster “who loves the Bundesliga, regards the Bundesliga as a highlight and wants to play for Eintracht Frankfurt”. The 18-year-old Swede doesn’t have long to wait: As of 1 July, he can officially call himself an Eagles player after joining from Malmö FF on a contract valid until 2028.
“Playing in the Bundesliga is a dream come true. To come here and play in front of the Eintracht fans will be a very nice feeling,” said Frankfurt’s new number 16, who was signed to bolster the Eagles’ midfield ranks. At Malmö, Larsson was regularly deployed in holding midfield, where he was often first to receive the ball from his defensive colleagues.
Playing in the Bundesliga is a dream come true.
Hugo Larsson
Larsson’s biggest strengths are his passing game and vision: No other player in the Allsvenskan – Sweden’s top flight – attempted as many short passes this season as the teenager, who completed an impressive 92 per cent of his passes in the final third. The 18-year-old, who racked up 39 appearances in the league, 13 in Europe and a further nine in the cup for Malmö, demands the ball from his defenders before picking out a team-mate further up the pitch.
“Huge Larsson is a young and already established midfielder with enormous potential,” added Krösche. “Despite his tender age, Hugo is already a regular starter for the Swedish cup holders, which gives you an indication not only of his talent but also his character.”
Professional breakthrough and cup glory
Larsson took his first footballing steps at SoGK Charlo, a club based in his hometown of Svarte. After a spell with Ystads IF, Larsson joined the youth setup of Swedish record league and cup winners Malmö in 2016.
He made his first-team debut at 17 before establishing himself as a regular starter the following year, helping the club win the 2022 Svenska Cupen. He replaced the injured Oscar Lewicki 30 minutes into the final against Hammarby IF and ended up going the distance as Malmö triumphed 4-3 on penalties to lift the trophy for a 15th time.
Sweden debut
After representing Sweden at U17 and U21 level, Larsson made his senior international debut against Finland in January this year, playing 68 minutes of the 2-0 victory.
Asked what type of player Eintracht are getting, Larsson replied: “A central midfielder who works very hard for the team and gives everything on the pitch. I’m good technically and hope I’ll be able to contribute a few goals and assists.”
Over to you, Hugo!
