Back in May it was revealed that Emil Krafth would be leaving Newcastle United when his contract ended on 30 June 2026.
The Sweden international had become a bit of a cult hero for the Newcastle United fans, his enthusiasm and commitment always guaranteed, even though he was rarely a regular in the starting eleven in recent years.
That love and respect was absolutely reciprocated and when it was made public in May that he would be leaving this summer, Emil Krafth could not hold back his tears in a club interview and the video (watch below) which went viral.
Now the Swedish Football Association have announced that the former Newcastle United defender and four other players are now to be formally retired from the national side – Emil Forsberg, Robin Olsen, Martin Olsson and Viktor Claesson are the others.
Sweden play a Nations League match against Bosnia-Herzegovina on November 14 at the Strawberry Arena and that is when the fans will say farewell to Emil Krafth after 52 international appearances.
Emil Krafth asked by Sportbladet if he will find this just as emotional as his Newcastle United exit and whether there will be tears again: “I can’t promise I won’t cry. It is going to be emotional to stand there with the players you’ve experienced so much with, with those who are still in the national team, some of the leaders and our fantastic fans. Well, you hear me, I already feel like it’s going to be special, but also fun. Especially since there are several of us who are being thanked at the same time.”
Emil Krafth asked about his highs and lows with Sweden: “The play-off victory against Italy in 2017 and the whole World Cup thing in Russia in 2018 was a strong experience. The hardest part? The tough years when we missed out on making it to the championship finals. We wanted to experience the championships again.”
Emil Krafth suffered a knee injury in November 2025 that required surgery and effectively brought his Newcastle United playing career to and end.
Still only 32, the former United defender now looking for his next challenge at club level.
Asked if his knee is fully recovered? “Yes, I am strong as an ox.”
Emil Krafth is now training with a personal trainer assistance in the gym and on the football pitch as he looks for the right club.
The defender says he has been talking to clubs in Sweden and elsewhere, as a free agent he can sign for a club outside the transfer windows.
The league season in Sweden is within a calendar year and the current 2026 league season ends this month.
Asked about where he is interested in playing next, Emil Krafth: “I’m not closing any doors on anything, either in Sweden or abroad. It should feel right for me in terms of football and also work with the family situation. Everyone should feel good.”
Back in May that very emotional video (watch below) was great to watch, as he made his Newcastle United goodbyes.
A great squad player for Newcastle United and clearly a wonderful character as well. Very popular with the rest of the players and the defender a hit with fans as well, someone who always gave it everything on the pitch. It was class to see just how much Newcastle United and the fans meant to Emil Krafth.
Emil Krath saying at the time: “I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to represent this incredible football club for the past seven years. It’s been a huge part of my life, I’ve made some amazing memories here and Newcastle is somewhere I’ve been really proud to call home.”
Emil Krafth adding: “I’ve had up and down moments on a personal level and some difficult times with injury, but I’ve always felt such brilliant support from the fans, my team-mates, the coaching staff and everybody connected to the club. This is something I will remember forever and want to say a massive thank you for. It’s been a privilege to wear the shirt and especially to play a part in a team that has managed to make history in the last few years. I believe the future is really bright for this club and I’ll be following the journey closely and continuing to support from a distance.”
Watch this clip from his departure video, wonderful.
“I loved every second of it. I love everyone associated with Newcastle United.” 🥹
Krafu’s message to you, Geordies… 🇸🇪🙌 pic.twitter.com/8JjHUJP1rA
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) May 16, 2026
I really hope that Emil Krafth succeeds in whatever he does next. All the very best.