Rosa Kafaji says she has “a good feeling” about Tony Gustavsson’s arrival as Sweden’s new head coach, describing him as “competent and passionate” after his first sessions in charge.
Speaking from the national team camp in Marbella ahead of Friday’s Nations League semi-final against Spain, the Arsenal midfielder, currently on loan at Brighton, praised the early impact of the Australian-based coach, who has taken over from Peter Gerhardsson.
“I got a good feeling. He seems competent and passionate, we like that. And he is very positive, it is good energy,” said Kafaji, who has impressed since returning to full fitness this season. She currently has one goal and two assists in four WSL appearances this season.
Gustavsson’s first training sessions were held behind closed doors as he sought to implement his tactical ideas quickly ahead of Sweden’s meeting with the world champions in Málaga.
“He has a clear idea of how he wants to play and how he wants to exploit our qualities,” said defender Nathalie Björn, while Anna Sandberg of Manchester United described him as “a different kind of coach” who brings “another type of energy.”
Gustavsson himself admitted that his enthusiasm had to be tempered slightly. “You have to put ties on yourself,” he said, after what was reportedly a demanding and vocal opening session.
The two-legged tie against Spain will determine who advances to the Nations League final, with the return fixture set for Gamla Ullevi in Gothenburg next Tuesday.
Despite the magnitude of the challenge, the mood in camp appears upbeat. Kafaji’s remarks reflect a wider sense of optimism that Gustavsson can maintain Sweden’s core identity while refreshing their approach.