Lena Oberdorf is one of the most exciting young midfielders in women’s soccer. Her strength, intelligence, and versatility make her a key player for Germany and VfL Wolfsburg. At just 23 years old (as of 2025), she has already made a huge impact at the highest level.
This article explores her journey, playing style, achievements, and future potential.
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Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born to Play Soccer
Lena Oberdorf was born on December 19, 2001, in Gevelsberg, Germany. From an early age, she showed incredible talent and passion for the game. She played with boys' teams, which helped her develop physicality and technical skills.
Her older brother, Tim Oberdorf, is also a professional footballer. Coming from a football-loving family, she was destined for greatness.
Youth Career and Early Signs of Stardom
Oberdorf joined SGS Essen’s youth academy, where she quickly progressed through the ranks. Her talent stood out, and she made her senior debut at just 16 years old in 2018.
She impressed in her first season, playing in both defense and midfield. Her ability to read the game and win duels made her one of the Bundesliga’s top young prospects.
Club Career: From Essen to Wolfsburg
SGS Essen: Making a Name for Herself
Oberdorf played for SGS Essen from 2018 to 2020. She gained valuable experience, competing against top teams like Bayern Munich and Wolfsburg. Despite her young age, she became a regular starter and played a key role in Essen’s DFB-Pokal final run in 2020.
Her performances attracted interest from bigger clubs. Wolfsburg, one of Europe’s best women’s teams, secured her signature in 2020.
VfL Wolfsburg: Becoming a Star
Joining Wolfsburg was a major step in Oberdorf’s career. She quickly adapted to the club’s high-intensity playing style. Her defensive skills, passing, and leadership made her an important player.
Since joining, she has helped Wolfsburg win Bundesliga titles and German Cups. She has also gained valuable experience in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, facing the best players in the world.
Her performances have only improved, and many believe she will be one of the best midfielders in the world for years to come.
International Career with Germany
A Teenage Sensation
Oberdorf made her Germany senior debut in 2019, just before turning 18. She was part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup squad that year, becoming one of the tournament’s youngest players.
Her composure and confidence impressed everyone. She was initially used as a defender but later moved into her natural midfield role.
UEFA Women’s Euro 2022: A Breakout Tournament
The UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 was a defining moment in Oberdorf’s career. She played a key role in Germany’s run to the final, dominating midfield battles with her tackling, strength, and passing.
Her performances earned her the Young Player of the Tournament award. Even though Germany lost to England in the final, Oberdorf proved she was among Europe’s best midfielders.
2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and Beyond
Germany had a disappointing 2023 Women’s World Cup, exiting in the group stage. However, Oberdorf remained one of the team's best performers.
As the German national team rebuilds, Oberdorf is expected to play a major role in future tournaments, including UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 and the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Playing Style: A Complete Midfielder
Lena Oberdorf is a powerful, intelligent, and aggressive midfielder. She is often compared to Joshua Kimmich and Casemiro because of her defensive skills and leadership.
1. Defensive Dominance
Oberdorf is a defensive midfielder who excels at winning tackles, interceptions, and duels. She reads the game well and breaks up opposition attacks.
2. Physicality and Strength
Her physical presence makes her difficult to beat in 1v1 situations. She uses her strength and body positioning to shield the ball and dominate midfield battles.
3. Versatility
Oberdorf has played as a center-back, defensive midfielder, and box-to-box midfielder. This versatility makes her a valuable asset for both Wolfsburg and Germany.
4. Passing and Playmaking
She is not just a defensive player. Oberdorf can distribute the ball effectively, switch play, and start attacks with quick forward passes.
5. Leadership and Mentality
Despite her young age, Oberdorf is a natural leader. She is vocal on the pitch, motivating teammates and taking responsibility in crucial moments.
Her ability to balance defensive solidity and attacking support makes her one of the best midfielders in the world.
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Major Achievements
Club Titles with Wolfsburg
- Frauen-Bundesliga Champion (2021, 2022, 2023)
- DFB-Pokal Winner (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
- UEFA Women’s Champions League Runner-up (2023)
International Honors
- UEFA Women’s Euro Runner-up (2022)
- UEFA Euro 2022 Young Player of the Tournament
- FIFA Women’s World Cup Participant (2019, 2023)
Individual Awards
- FIFA FIFPRO Women’s World XI (2022, 2023)
- Germany Women’s Player of the Year (2023)
These achievements highlight her impact at both club and international levels.
Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
Injury Concerns
Like many physical midfielders, Oberdorf has faced injuries. She plays with high intensity, which increases the risk of injuries. Managing her fitness will be key to her long-term success.
Germany’s Recent Struggles
Despite Oberdorf’s talent, Germany has struggled in recent major tournaments. They exited early in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, a disappointing result for such a strong footballing nation.
However, Oberdorf is seen as a key figure in Germany’s rebuilding process.
Expectations and Pressure
As one of the world’s best young players, Oberdorf faces high expectations. She must continue developing and adapting to different tactical systems.
With her mentality and work ethic, she is more than capable of meeting these challenges.
The Future of Lena Oberdorf
Could She Move to a Bigger Club?
Wolfsburg is one of the best women’s teams in Europe, but there is always speculation about Oberdorf moving to clubs like Barcelona, Lyon, or Chelsea.
For now, she remains committed to Wolfsburg. But in the future, a move could help her develop further.
Winning More Trophies
Oberdorf’s biggest goal is to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League and major international titles. She has already come close and will push for these in the coming years.
Becoming the Best Midfielder in the World
Many experts believe Oberdorf could become the best defensive midfielder in the world. She has the talent, work ethic, and leadership to dominate the game for the next decade.
Conclusion
Lena Oberdorf is one of the brightest stars in women’s soccer. Her defensive skills, leadership, and versatility make her an irreplaceable player for both Germany and Wolfsburg.
She has already achieved so much at a young age, but her journey is just beginning. As she continues to grow, she could become one of the greatest midfielders of her generation.
With a bright future ahead, fans can expect many more trophies, dominating performances, and unforgettable moments from Lena Oberdorf.
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