Arsenal had to shut down the comments section on an Instagram video announcing their latest women's team acquisition after the player became the target of appalling sexist abuse online.
The north London club signed 19-year-old Swedish defender Smilla Holmberg on Monday, with the teenager recording an enthusiastic message for supporters from inside the Emirates dressing room.
"Hey Gooners. I'm at the Emirates and I can't wait to get started. Come on you Gunners," Holmberg said in the clip.
However, a small number of users responded with disgraceful sexist comments, forcing the Gunners to disable the comments feature entirely.
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The decision to remove the comments meant other supporters were unable to welcome the young defender to the club.
Holmberg arrives at Arsenal, currently sitting third in the Women's Super League, with an impressive track record despite her age.
The teenage centre-back accumulated 96 appearances during her time at Swedish side Hammarby, where she collected two domestic cup winners' medals alongside a league championship.
Smilla Holmberg is excited to get going at Arsenal
|Her performances in Sweden have also earned her recognition at international level, with Holmberg having represented her country on nine occasions.
The club views the defender as a major addition to their squad, given her experience and trophy-winning pedigree at such a young age.
Despite the abuse from a minority of users, Holmberg expressed her delight at completing what she described as a lifelong ambition.
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Five facts about the Premier League | PA/GETTY/REUTERS/GBNEWS"It's always been my dream to play for Arsenal. This is a very special moment for me and my family, but it's also about joining a club with the highest standards and a strong winning culture," she said.
The Swedish international added: "I'm excited to start this new chapter, to continue developing my game in a demanding environment and to compete at the highest level.
"My ambitions align with the club's and I want to help win silverware here."
Arsenal collaborate with data science firm Signify Group, utilising their specialist Threat Matrix service as part of their ongoing efforts to tackle targeted harassment on social media platforms.
Smilla Holmberg pictured in her new Arsenal jersey
|GETTY
The club's partnership with the company ultimately led to the decision to switch off commenting on the announcement video.
Manager Renee Slegers expressed her enthusiasm about the new arrival, stating: "We're thrilled to welcome Smilla to the club.
"She's a very talented young defender who brings versatility and athleticism, with so much potential for development.
"I'm looking forward to work with her as we aim for more trophies together."