Ekdal aiming to harness World Cup experience to boost Samp

After three seasons away in Germany and fresh off the back of representing Sweden at the World Cup in Russia, Albin Ekdal is back in Italy.

The midfielder spent seven years in the country, donning the jerseys of Juventus, Bologna, Siena and Cagliari during that time. He’s now at Samp, ready to take to the field wearing the most beautiful jersey in the world.

“I’d like to thank the president and others at the club who helped make this dream a reality,” Ekdal told the club’s media team following his move.

“I worked with Marco Giampaolo around 10 years ago, so I know him a little bit. I’ve always been a central midfielder, playing either as a playmaker or wide of a midfield three. I can play either role.

“I’ll chat with the coach and we’ll see where I can help the team most.

“The experience at the World Cup was amazing. Now it’s time to do well for Sampdoria.”