Born in Reykjavík in 1978, Eiður Guðjohnsen established a professional football career spanning 23 years and numerous countries. As a forward, he secured significant trophies in England and Spain, most notably contributing to a historic treble-winning campaign at Barcelona. His longevity in the sport allowed him to play across leagues in the Netherlands, France, Greece, Belgium, China, Norway, and India.
Early Career and Bolton Wanderers
After starting at Valur, he played for PSV in the Netherlands starting in 1995. Following an ankle injury, he returned to KR Reykjavík. He signed with Bolton Wanderers in 1998, making his debut against Birmingham City.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Success in London and Spain
Chelsea acquired him for £4.5 million in June 2000. During his tenure, he played alongside Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and later adapted to a withdrawn role under José Mourinho to secure two Premier League titles. In 2006, he moved to Barcelona for £8 million. During his time there, the team achieved a treble in 2008–09, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League.
International Tenure
He debuted for the Iceland national team in 1996, coming on as a substitute for his father, Arnór Guðjohnsen. Over twenty years, he earned 88 caps and scored 26 international goals. He served as team captain and was part of the squad that reached the quarter-finals during UEFA Euro 2016, marking the country's first appearance at a major tournament.
Journeyman Years and Coaching
Following his exit from Barcelona, he played for clubs including Monaco, Tottenham Hotspur, Stoke City, Fulham, and AEK Athens. He later returned to Bolton Wanderers in 2014 and competed in China, Norway, and India. Following his retirement from playing, he transitioned into the role of an association football coach.
Fast facts
- Born: 1978, Reykjavík, Iceland
- International goals: 26
- International caps: 88
- Chelsea transfer fee: £4.5 million
- Barcelona transfer fee: £8 million
- Professional career duration: 23 years
Questions readers ask
Did he ever play on the same team as his father?
He made his international debut in 1996 as a substitute for his father, Arnór Guðjohnsen.
Which major trophies did he win with Barcelona?
He was part of the squad that won the 2008–09 La Liga, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Champions League titles.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
.jpg)
