Former Arsenal midfielder Kristoffer Olsson has been hospitalized after collapsing at home due to an “acute brain-related illness,” sending shockwaves through the football community.
The 28-year-old, who came through Arsenal’s esteemed academy system, currently plies his trade in Denmark and has earned 47 senior international caps for Sweden.
Olsson’s health crisis unfolded on February 20 when he lost consciousness, prompting his immediate transfer to Aarhus University Hospital. He has since been placed on a ventilator to aid his breathing. His current club, Midtjylland, clarified in a statement that Olsson’s condition is “not due to self-harm of any kind, nor is it caused by external factors.”
In an official club statement, Midtjylland emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “A team of Denmark’s leading medical experts is currently working hard to make a diagnosis and initiate the right treatment.” Olsson is surrounded by his immediate family and members of Midtjylland’s staff, receiving specialized care from medical professionals.
Midtjylland urged the public to respect Olsson’s privacy during this challenging time, emphasizing the importance of providing him and his family with the necessary peace of mind for his healing and recovery.
The news of Olsson’s illness has prompted an outpouring of support from across the football world, with Arsenal expressing their solidarity. The Premier League giants extended their well wishes to Olsson, highlighting his journey from their academy alongside other notable graduates.
“Get well soon, Kristoffer. We wish you a full and speedy recovery,” Arsenal stated in a social media post, reflecting the sentiment echoed by fans and colleagues alike.