Merle Frohms is a German professional footballer widely regarded as one of the top goalkeepers in women’s football. Known for her shot-stopping, leadership, and consistency, she has been a mainstay for VfL Wolfsburg and the Germany national team, and is now linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on January 28, 1995, in Celle, Germany, Merle Frohms began playing football with her older brother and competed with boys’ teams in her youth. She joined Fortuna Celle before being signed by VfL Wolfsburg in 2011, where she started her journey in elite women’s football.
Club Career: From Wolfsburg to Bundesliga Stardom
Frohms debuted for VfL Wolfsburg’s senior team in 2012 and was part of the squad that won back-to-back UEFA Women’s Champions League titles in 2012–13 and 2013–14. She played both for Wolfsburg’s first and second teams, gaining experience and collecting domestic trophies, including four Frauen-Bundesliga titles and multiple DFB Pokal cups.
In 2018, she moved to SC Freiburg for more first-team opportunities, making 37 league appearances in two seasons. Frohms then joined Eintracht Frankfurt in 2020, becoming the club’s first signing after its merger with 1. FFC Frankfurt and playing 43 league matches.
In 2022, Frohms returned to VfL Wolfsburg, adding more domestic silverware to her collection. By September 2024, she had made over 40 appearances in her second spell with Wolfsburg. As of 2025, she is confirmed to leave Wolfsburg on a free transfer and is strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid, where she would bring vast experience and competition to the goalkeeper position.
International Career: Germany’s Reliable No. 1
Frohms has represented Germany at every youth level, winning the UEFA Women’s Under-17 Championship in 2012 and the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in 2014. She made her senior debut in 2018 and earned 52 caps by her international retirement in September 2024.
She was Germany’s starting goalkeeper at the 2019 and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cups, UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 (where Germany finished as runners-up), and the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she won a bronze medal. Frohms is celebrated for her penalty-saving heroics and consistency on the international stage.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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UEFA Women’s Champions League winner (2012–13, 2013–14)
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Four-time Frauen-Bundesliga champion
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Seven-time DFB Pokal winner
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FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup winner (2014)
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UEFA Women’s U17 European Champion (2012)
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UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 runner-up
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Olympic bronze medalist (2024)
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52 senior caps for Germany
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Silbernes Lorbeerblatt (Silver Laurel Leaf) recipient (2024)
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Announced retirement from international football in September 2024
Frohms is praised for her leadership, reflexes, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Style of Play
Merle Frohms is a modern goalkeeper—quick off her line, excellent in one-on-one situations, and commanding in the box. She is known for her shot-stopping, composure, and ability to organize the defense.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As one of Germany’s top goalkeepers, Frohms commands a leading salary in the Frauen-Bundesliga and is well-positioned for endorsements, particularly as she considers a move to a major club like Real Madrid.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Frohms is known for her professionalism and commitment to education, having pursued a degree in business administration. She is admired for her resilience and leadership both on and off the field.
FAQs About Merle Frohms
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What position does Merle Frohms play?
She is a goalkeeper. -
Which clubs has Merle Frohms played for?
Fortuna Celle, VfL Wolfsburg, SC Freiburg, Eintracht Frankfurt. -
What are Merle Frohms’s top achievements?
Multiple Champions League and Bundesliga titles, World Cup and Olympic medals, over 50 caps for Germany. -
Is Merle Frohms joining Real Madrid?
She is strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid after leaving Wolfsburg in 2025. -
When did Merle Frohms retire from international football?
September 2024.
Conclusion
Merle Frohms’s journey from Celle to the pinnacle of European football with Wolfsburg and Germany highlights her exceptional talent, consistency, and leadership. As she prepares for her next chapter, potentially with Real Madrid, Frohms stands out as one of the most accomplished and respected goalkeepers in the women’s game.
