For millions of football fans all over the world, striker Eidur Gudjohnsen was their gateway towards knowing about the Nordic country of Iceland, which has a measly population of 323,000.
It was clear from a very early age that Gudjohnsen had football running in his genes and his international debut went down in history as one of the most unique events to have taken place on the touchlines: a 17-year-old Eidur came on as a second-half substitute, replacing his father, Arnor.
Having overseen Chelsea's transition from a top-four team to a title-winning club, and having been a part of Barcelona's historic 2008-'09 season, there are few laurels in world football that Gudjohnsen has not won. He is also one part of an elite group of footballers who have played under two of the most successful managers in modern times, Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho.
After playing a part in Iceland's remarkable run in Euro 2016, where they reached the quarter-finals, Gudjohnsen decided to try his hand at the two-season old Indian Super League, signing up for FC Pune City for the upcoming season. It will be the 10th country where the 38-year-old will be plying his trade in. He caught up with Scroll.in for a chat from Spain, where Pune were training.
India will be the 10th country where you will be playing football. What made you take the plunge?
The [ISL] project excited me when the management and the coach [Antonio Lopez Habas] approached me and assured me that it would not only be will be a different [league], but a very physical one. That is what made me take up the challenge.
Have you managed to catch a glimpse of the ISL?
Being in Europe, it was tough to follow but from whatever I can see during the training sessions, the camaraderie between the Indian and foreign players has been good and it is now about finding the right balance going into the new season.
Several former world stars have played in the last two seasons. Did you talk to any of them about the rigours of the league?
No, I did not talk to any any of them because I have not kept in touch with any of the players who have been associated with the ISL.
What has been your first impression of the FC Pune City setup? Did any of the Indian players catch your attention?
I was pleasantly surprised with the professionalism that has been on display. I think that is the most important aspect of the game. The facilities where we practiced during the pre-season were excellent. As for the Indian players, I can't single out anyone but I must say that they possess a lot of quality. They are working hard and are always keen to improve.
Iceland's memorable run in the Euros made them a fan-favourite across the globe? After 22 years of international football, what was your experience like?
It was a great honour representing the national team for so many years and playing in the European Championships is something I dreamed of as a little boy. The tournament lasted slightly longer than what I hoped for though.
What was the reception like when you went back home?
It was exceptional, almost like a dream and it certainly felt as though we had won the Euros. We had a celebration with the players and then, with the fans. The country is still basking in the Euro hangover. The tournament is over, and now it is time for the country to move on.
Iceland's football model, with the Iceland Football Association (KSI) overseeing the development for over 15 years, is now looked up to by developing football nations across the world. How do you view this?
Iceland's success was a process and it is something that takes time to develop. Whether we have stumbled upon the ideal model, nobody knows, but it is something that worked very well for Iceland. For India to succeed, they need to identify their own.
Does size play a role here? Do you think it is easier to develop a structure in Iceland compared to a vast country like India?
It is difficult to explain. The distance is not much [in Iceland] and it is very easy to set up a competitive league. The youth don't need to travel very far and can get to the nearest training ground by walk or hopping on their bikes. Given the sheer size of India, they need to figure out how they can best use their population.
Having had such a long, successful career, was there a moment that stood out over all these years?
I was very lucky from the start to have played in some of the biggest clubs. It is hard to pick out one but there have been several ups and downs. I've tasted a lot of success and had my fair share of setbacks too, especially with injuries. Overall, it has been a pleasure.
