Barcelona Femení have confirmed the early departure of two international stars, Fridolina Rolfö and Ellie Roebuck, one year before their contracts were set to expire. The exits leave new head coach Pere Romeu with two key gaps to fill as the club prepares for the upcoming campaign.
While it’s not uncommon in the women’s game for players to leave early by mutual agreement, often for reasons beyond just on-pitch performance and no monetary reason, both exits mark the end of their chapters for the club.
Swedish international Fridolina Rolfö had been open about her desire for a new challenge following a frustrating season disrupted by injury. Initially signed as a winger from Wolfsburg in 2021, she transitioned into a dynamic left-back role at Barça, where her attacking flair and defensive discipline made her a standout performer. During her time in Spain, Rolfö was instrumental in the team’s domestic and European dominance, winning an impressive 13 trophies, including 4 Liga F titles, 3 Copas de la Reina, 4 Supercopas, and 2 UEFA Women’s Champions League titles.
🥺 Quatre anys, 13 títols i milers de records
— FC Barcelona Femení (@FCBfemeni) July 7, 2025
💙❤️ Frido, culer per sempre: https://t.co/oUC0QVxseR pic.twitter.com/sCtFV5ieXF
No club has been decided for the player, who is currently with the Sweden national team at Euro 2025. A return to Germany or Sweden could be on the cards, while facing a new challenge in England’s WSL.
Meanwhile, English goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck also departs after a difficult year. Joining from Manchester City following a stroke, she made just two appearances for Barça before suffering another medical issue in March, a left occipital infarct. Thankfully, Roebuck avoided long-term damage to her brain function or vision, but her time in Spain was undeniably shaped by an unfortunate health setback.
Her career now continues with a return to the Women’s Super League, joining Aston Villa, where she is expected to take on the No. 1 goalkeeper role, providing she remains fit and healthy. The move offers a fresh start and a chance to re-establish herself at the top level.
A new face between the sticks 🧤 pic.twitter.com/YjeIoyGMHz
— Aston Villa Women (@AVWFCOfficial) July 8, 2025
Both players leave with the club’s gratitude and best wishes for in their health and careers as they embark on their next steps.