The Gambian midfielder quickly became one of the revelations of Sweden’s Superettan, making 24 league appearances, scoring three goals, and providing one assist in his debut season.
By the end of the campaign, Sosseh had covered an impressive 160 kilometres and clocked a top speed of 32.5 km/h numbers that helped him secure Kalmar’s Breakthrough Player of the Season award, a recognition few could argue against.
Following the team’s promotion celebrations at Lamtorget, The Alkamba Times caught up with the former BST Galaxy player to reflect on his first season in Sweden, his growing confidence in front of goal, Kalmar’s ambitions for 2026, and the increasing presence of Gambian footballers in the Scandinavian game.
A Promising Start After Early Doubts
“When I first came, I thought Kalmar returning to the Allsvenskan was impossible,” Sosseh admitted. “We had mixed results in preseason struggling to win and even drawing some matches. There were question marks, obviously. But once the league started, I saw something different. I told myself: if we push, we can be promoted.”
Kalmar did just that, securing promotion at the first attempt under an experienced coach and a squad Sosseh describes as “very strong and balanced.”
“We had experienced players and a very good coach,” he said. “That played to our advantage as the season progressed.”
Adaptability and Growth
Naturally a defensive midfielder, Sosseh was often deployed in advanced roles as a No.10 or even on the wing where he contributed goals and assists.
“I’ve missed lots of chances,” he laughed. “But when I play further up the pitch, I get closer to goal and have more opportunities to score. I always focus on contributing either by scoring or assisting because in football, numbers matter. Three goals isn’t bad for a start, and I’m looking forward to improving next season.”
Ready for the Allsvenskan Challenge
With Kalmar now back among Sweden’s elite, Sosseh is under no illusions about the step up in quality that awaits.
“Fans will see improvement from me in the Allsvenskan,” he promised. “I want to develop and take myself to the next level. I’ll spend my break training hard, because the Allsvenskan is tougher than the Superettan.
We played Hammarby in the Swedish Cup, and already I could see the difference the crowd, the tactics, the tempo. Everything was on another level.”
Recognition and Support
Earning the Breakthrough Player of the Season award capped off a memorable debut campaign for the teenager.
“I appreciate being named Breakthrough Player of the Season,” Sosseh said. “I feel the love and trust from my teammates, the club, and the fans. Kalmar as a city has been incredible to me. The board, the supporters, and even the small Gambian community here have made my stay special.”
Gambia’s Rising Football Wave
Gambia’s influence in Swedish football continues to grow, and Sosseh is proud to be part of that movement.
“Gambia is full of talent,” he said. “I always tell people in Kalmar that I’m not even the best player from Gambia — so imagine how good the others are. Those coming from Gambia now or in the future will make an impact.
It’s not easy, but if you prepare, focus on training, and commit to developing yourself, everything becomes possible.”
Looking Ahead
Still only 18, Gibril Sosseh has quickly become one of the most promising young midfielders in Sweden. With Kalmar back in the Allsvenskan and his sights set on improvement, Sosseh’s journey is just beginning — and both club and country will be watching closely as he takes his next steps.
