Arsenal turn off social media comments after ‘disgusting’ reaction to Smilla Holmberg signing

7th January 2026 Oliver Taliku

Arsenal announced new signing Smilla Holmberg on Tuesday morning, but her arrival got a disappointing reaction on social media with the club forced to turn off comments.

Holmberg joined Arsenal for an undisclosed fee from Hammarby.

‘Disgusting’ reaction leaves Arsenal with no choice

After Holmberg was confirmed as a Gunner this week, fans rejoiced at their new 19-year-old starlet.

However not all the reaction was good. Arsenal were forced to take action by turning off all comments on both X and Instagram posts about the Swedish teenager.

It was no surprise to see the move get a lot of traction with Arsenal one of the most popular women’s clubs in the world.

But the special moment for Holmberg quickly turned sour.

Arsenal’s comments sections were filled with sexist remarks and comments that would no doubt leave the Swedish international feeling uncomfortable.

One user on X stated their disappointment in the community, as women’s football continues to struggle past sexism even in 2026.

“The way men have reacted to the Smilla Holmberg transfer is disappointing but not surprising. I hope she doesn’t see any of this.”

There have been no comments form Arsenal or their new signing regarding the situation and there probably won’t be any.

The Gunners will be keen to protect their newest star and full focus will be on her upcoming debut.

When will Smilla Holmberg make her Arsenal debut?

With the WSL returning from winter break this weekend, new signings could be making their debuts very soon.

Arsenal have a make or break clash against Manchester United on Saturday afternoon. It is hard to imagine that Holmberg will start on Saturday in such an important game, but the 19-year-old may make her debut off the bench.

The Gunners play Aston Villa in the FA Cup a week later. With a League Cup semi-final days later, Holmberg could make her first start for Arsenal as soon as next weekend.

Despite all the disgusting comments on her posts this week, Arsenal’s teenager will be keen to let her football do the talking.

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About Oliver Taliku 479 Articles
Olly Taliku has worked with highly respected sports and gambling websites where he has produced hundreds of articles, as well as being published with Burton Albion and Chesterfield FC. At Burton Olly worked closely alongside the women's team, producing mainly matchday content including reports and interviews. He also has experience as an accredited Premier League and EFL writer for Prost International where he worked during the 2021/22 season to produce matchday content as an on location reporter. Olly specialises in women's football as well as long form SEO content plus news and tips. While he enjoys writing about all football, Olly supports Arsenal passionately as a lifelong fan of the club.

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