Birkir Már Sævarsson is a household name in Icelandic football, a true veteran who has been a cornerstone of the national team for years. This seasoned player, born in 1984, has earned an impressive 54 caps and has showcased his versatility by playing on both wings. He is a key figure in Lagerbäck’s team, a testament to his talent and experience.
Iceland’s Rise: A Proud Moment
The recent achievements of the Icelandic national team are nothing short of remarkable. The feelings of pride and accomplishment are palpable, especially for players like Birkir. He acknowledges the monumental impact these successes have had on Icelandic football, a sentiment shared by many.
The Heart of the Lion: The Icelanders’ Never-Say-Die Attitude
Despite the disappointment of losing their last two matches, Birkir remains optimistic. While the team performed well, they are never satisfied with a loss. He highlights the team’s strong start in both games, particularly the first half where they led 1-0. He regrets the missed opportunity for a 2-0 lead early in the second half, believing it would have secured the win.
A New Chapter in Stockholm: From Brann to Hammarby
Birkir’s move to Hammarby was born out of necessity. He lost his place in the Brann team and couldn’t afford to risk missing his spot on the national team. Hammarby’s strong interest made the decision easy, especially given the club’s vibrant atmosphere. The 25,000-strong average attendance and the fervent support from the fans, even during tough times, is something special. He knew instantly that he would thrive in this environment.
Building for the Future: Hammarby’s Ambitions
Although Hammarby finished 11th last season, Birkir is confident in their potential. He acknowledges the club’s recent return to Allsvenskan after five years in Superettan (Serie B). The priority was to establish themselves in the league, and they achieved that goal. Now, with a few strategic additions to the squad, he believes they are poised to compete at the top of the league.
A Love for Italian Football: A Dream Yet to Be Realized
Birkir’s passion for Italian football runs deep. He has been a devoted fan since childhood, with AC Milan holding a special place in his heart. He enjoys watching games featuring Milan, Inter, and Juventus whenever possible, but admits that he hasn’t followed the Serie A as closely in recent years. Despite this, he harbors a dream of playing in Italy, a dream that remains alive.
Iceland’s Sporting Success: A Nation on the Rise
Iceland’s recent success extends beyond football. The country is celebrating achievements in handball and basketball as well. Birkir attributes this to the significant improvements in sporting facilities, particularly in football. These new facilities allow Icelandic athletes to train year-round, fostering their development. He also emphasizes the importance of the Icelandic mentality: a relentless dedication and determination to reach their athletic goals.
Family, Music, and Maintaining Peak Performance
Birkir’s life revolves around family. He cherishes his time with his wife and four children, and their daily activities fill his days. Beyond family, he finds solace in watching sports and listening to music. Music is a passion he enjoys almost as much as sports.
Staying Fit and Focused: Preparing for the Future
Even during the off-season, Birkir maintains his fitness. He will be working on an individualized training program to stay in top shape. He is hopeful that he will have the opportunity to join the national team in Abu Dhabi in January, but the decision hasn’t been made yet.
A Winger’s Heart: Offense, Assists, and Dreams
Birkir’s journey as a footballer took an unexpected turn. He began his career playing as a forward or winger, only transitioning to a fullback position at age 21. His passion lies in attacking play, especially the thrill of assisting a goal with a well-placed cross.
The Future Holds Promise: A Veteran with Dreams
Birkir’s age doesn’t dim his ambition. He acknowledges that playing in a bigger league is no longer a priority, but he still dreams of winning titles in Sweden and participating in the European Cup with Hammarby before he hangs up his boots. He is a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience and a heart full of dreams, a true testament to the spirit of Icelandic football.
