Nanne Ruuskanen


Nanne Rebekka Ruuskanen is a Finnish professional footballer who plays as a centre back for Damallsvenskan club Djurgården. Known for her defensive versatility, physicality, and leadership, Ruuskanen has established herself as a prominent figure in Finnish women's football, with a career spanning Finland, Norway, and Sweden.

Early life

Nanne Ruuskanen was born in Helsinki, Finland, on 19 November 2001. Raised in a football-oriented family, she was inspired by her siblings, several of whom pursued careers in the sport. Her sister, Nelli Berg, played professionally in Italy, while her other sisters, Neea Berg, Ninni Berg, and Natasa Ruuskanen, have competed in Finland’s Kansallinen Liiga. This environment fostered Ruuskanen’s competitive spirit and passion for football, leading her to join local youth teams before progressing to senior-level competition.

Club career

Pallokissat (2018)

Ruuskanen began her professional career with Pallokissat in the Kansallinen Liiga in 2018, making her senior debut at age 16. She appeared in several matches, showcasing her potential as a reliable defender and attracting attention from larger clubs.

Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS) (2019–2022)

In 2019, Ruuskanen joined Kuopion Palloseura, one of Finland’s most successful women’s clubs. Over four seasons, she became a cornerstone of the team’s defense, playing 86 league matches and scoring six goals. Her first goal came in July 2019 against Turun Palloseura, with three goals in 2021 and two in 2022. Ruuskanen’s contributions helped KuPS win consecutive Kansallinen Liiga titles in 2021 and 2022.

SK Brann (2023–2024)

In January 2023, Ruuskanen signed with Norwegian club SK Brann in the Toppserien. She debuted in the 2023 season, appearing in ten matches, starting seven. Injuries, particularly a ligament injury in 2024, limited her to minimal appearances that year. She left the club in November 2024.

Djurgården (2025–present)

On 16 January 2025, Ruuskanen signed with Djurgården in the Damallsvenskan, wearing the number 4 jersey

International career

Ruuskanen debuted for the Finland women’s national team in February 2023 against Croatia in a friendly. By the end of 2023, she had earned two caps. In June 2025, a clerical error by coach Outi Saarinen saw 51-year-old retired player Stina Ruuskanen mistakenly named to the squad for a UEFA Women's Nations League match against Serbia, preventing Nanne from playing in the 1-1 draw.

Playing style

Ruuskanen is a versatile centre back known for her physicality, aerial ability, and composure. Standing at 1.75 m, she excels in duels and organizing the defense. Her right-footed play aids in build-up, and her six goals in 86 Kansallinen Liiga matches highlight her set-piece contributions.

Personal life

Ruuskanen comes from a footballing family, with sisters Nelli, Neea, Ninni, and Natasa involved in the sport. Their support has been pivotal to her career. She is known for her professionalism, notably handling the 2025 national team error gracefully.

Honours

KuPS
Brann