Arsenal: Lina Hurtig 'considered quitting football' as injury-hit Emirates spell caused mental health issues | OneFootball

The Swede joined Fiorentina as a free agent in June

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The Sweden international, named in the Blågult squad for Euro 2025, penned a three-year deal to return to Serie A with Fiorentina last week.

Hurtig had also cited ‘personal issues’ as an explanation for her extended absences, and has now shed new light on her mental health struggles.

Hurtig won the Women’s Champions League in her final Arsenal appearance

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

“It was hard, it was the toughest period of my life,” she said, speaking from the Sweden training camp. “I would never play football again, it was at that level.

“I don't really want to go into the details, but it has been building up over a long time. In the end, it just couldn't go any further.”

She continued, thanking her Arsenal teammates and coaching staff for their support before citing the impending European Championships as a helpful motivator.

“It took time, but in the end I found my way back to myself and to the joy of football. And to life in some way.

“I enjoy every training session and think it's fun. Sitting here now and playing in the European Championship is extra big for me.

Sweden will meet Scandinavian rivals Denmark in their Euro 2025 opener, with Germany and Poland completing the group.