Experienced center back arrives from Swedish top flight during club’s inaugural USL League One season
SARASOTA, FL (APRIL 2, 2026) — Sarasota Paradise today announced the signing of Swedish defender Amadeus Sögaard Linderoth on a multi-year deal. The 28-year-old center back has years of experience competing in the Allsvenskan, Sweden’s top-flight division, bringing a veteran addition to the already strong core at Paradise, as the club continues its inaugural USL League One season.
The six-foot defender brings high-level European experience to the Gulf Coast. During the 2025 season with IFK Norrköping, Amadeus made 20 appearances and recorded two assists while helping anchor the defensive line. Known primarily for his presence as a center back, Sögaard also offers versatility with the ability to play as a left-back when needed.
“We’re truly thrilled to welcome Amadeus to Sarasota,” said Marcus Walfridson, Founder and CEO, Sarasota Paradise. “Bringing in a player of his caliber from a top European league like the Allsvenskan is a massive statement of intent for our club. His experience and leadership will be vital as we navigate our first professional season.”
Amadeus’ arrival is a landmark move for the club, representing one of the most significant defensive signings in the league this year. The addition further strengthens the burgeoning Scandinavian connection at Sarasota Paradise, as he joins fellow Nordic talents Maximus Tainio, Hugo Bäckstrand,
Jørgen Pettersen, and Sander Røed under the leadership of Head Coach Mika Elovaara. Echoing Walfridson’s excitement for the newest signing in Paradise, Elovaara added: “You don’t get to sign someone like Amadeus often in our league, and I am very grateful to our club leadership for making this happen. Amadeus will help us on and off the field, in the short term and the long term, as we strive to develop players and win games.”
“I’m very excited to join Sarasota Paradise and be part of the ambitious project that Marcus and his team are building,” said Amadeus. “Not only is this a stunning part of the world, but this is a club with a clear vision for the future. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience to the team and helping build something special in our first USL League One season.”
Off the field, Sögaard also comes from a well-known Swedish creative family. He is the son of legendary singer Carola Häggkvist, one of Scandinavia’s most successful recording artists and a celebrated Eurovision Song Contest winner.
The signing further cements Sarasota Paradise’s commitment to becoming a premier destination for elite talent. By attracting proven professionals from top-tier international leagues, the club is establishing a high-performance environment designed to foster world-class player development. The transaction signals Paradise’s long-term ambition to be recognized globally as a hub where ambitious players can elevate their careers while competing in the American soccer pyramid.
Sögaard will join the Sarasota roster pending final visa confirmation.
ABOUT SARASOTA PARADISE
Sarasota Paradise is a professional soccer club competing in USL League One, playing its home games at Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch, a 3,000+ seat stadium. Founded by Swedish entrepreneur Marcus Walfridson, the club transitioned to the professional ranks in 2026 after a successful stint in USL League Two. For more information on tickets and the inaugural professional season, visit sarasotaparadise.us
MEDIA CONTACT
Ryan Bailey: ryan@redknotcomms.com
