Sweden midfielder Olsson making 'significant' progress in recovery from acute brain condition

HERNING, Denmark (AP) — Sweden midfielder Kristoffer Olsson has made ”significant” physical progress as he continues his rehabilitation from an acute brain condition, his Danish team FC Midtjylland said Sunday.

The 28-year-old Olsson lost consciousness at his home on Feb. 20 and was diagnosed with several small blood clots in the brain as a result of an extremely rare blood-vessel inflammation.

He was transferred to a neurological rehabilitation center last month and Midtjylland said Olsson has “regained both motor function and his verbal abilities.”

“His physical progress is significant,” the club said, “and he is now actively training his gait function and is able to eat independently.

“Although cognitive challenges remain and the prognosis for his full recovery remains uncertain, the specialists at the treatment center are encouraged by the positive steps Kristoffer has taken.”

Midtjylland said Olsson is still surrounded by his close family and club staff.

“It is breathtaking to witness Kristoffer’s battle with the disease,” Midtjylland chief executive Claus Steinlein said. “His positive attitude, fighting spirit and tireless will to win are an inspiration to us all.”

Olsson has played 47 times for Sweden, most recently against Estonia in November. He joined Midtjylland in 2022 for a second spell with the team. He has also played for Belgian club Anderlecht, Russian team Krasnodar, Swedish club AIK and in the youth teams at English club Arsenal.

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