Norwegian international Guro Bergsvand has quickly made a name for herself in the German Bundesliga and the UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) since her recent transfer to VfL Wolfsburg. With over 40 caps for Norway and seven goals, the formidable defender aims to add to her accolades, including the Toppserien title she won in 2021, while competing at the European level.
Bergsvand joined Wolfsburg from England’s Women’s Super League (WSL) side Brighton just ahead of the new season, a move anticipated by many as a strategic decision by coach Stephan Lerch to bolster the team’s defensive lineup. Currently, Wolfsburg sits seventh in the UWCL table, outperforming elite clubs like Juventus and reigning champions Arsenal.
As they prepare to face Manchester United in the next round of the UWCL, Wolfsburg is eager to climb into the automatic qualifying positions. Earlier in the competition, the team had a convincing 4-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain, alongside an easy win against Norwegian team Vålerenga, showcasing their strength.
Reflecting on her transition to Wolfsburg, Bergsvand admits that the decision was relatively straightforward. After Brighton announced the departure of five players, she quickly found herself drawn to the opportunity in Germany. “It was a great opportunity for me,” she stated. “I decided fairly quickly that I wanted to come here and play for this team.”
Bergsvand has extensive experience facing Manchester United from her time in the WSL. She noted that the current iteration of United has evolved significantly. “They have a lot of depth in their squad and more variation in their playing style,” she explained. Recognizing the talent United possesses, Bergsvand emphasized the need for Wolfsburg to be sharp in their finishing and to limit United’s scoring opportunities.
Wolfsburg has a prestigious history in the UWCL, having last won the title in 2014, adding to their triumph in 2013. Since then, they have reached the final four times, most recently losing to Barcelona in the 2023 final. Bergsvand acknowledged the club’s ambition, stating, “Every year Wolfsburg wants to do the best and compete… the goal is always to win.”
Bergsvand’s journey to the international stage was unconventional; she made her debut for Norway after turning 27, prompting some to label her a “late-bloomer.” With a humorous touch, she reflected on this label but emphasized her determination to improve as a player. “I’ve always wanted to get better; that’s always been the mission,” she said.
Looking ahead, Wolfsburg will host Manchester United on November 19, 2025, in a crucial UWCL match, followed by a Bundesliga clash against Red Bull Leipzig on November 23. With Bergsvand’s experience and ambition driving the team, Wolfsburg hopes to reclaim their competitive edge in both the domestic league and European competition.