Arnar Freyr Arnarsson’s seventh season overall in the Opel HBL will be his first wearing the SG Flensburg-Handewitt jersey. The Icelandic player is looking forward to his new club and is expected to play a key role both in the circle and on defense. Our editorial team spoke with the 31-year-old.
Arnar, you played against SG in Flensburg at the end of April. Are you already looking forward to your home debut at the end of August?
Arnar Freyr Arnarsson: I often had a tough time in Flensburg when I was with MT Melsungen. Now I’m looking forward to playing for the SG and enjoying a home win. I’m currently getting to know my new teammates. They all seem to be in good spirits. I’m confident that together we can achieve a lot.
You had a great finish with MT Melsungen and won the EHF European League. Now you’re the only defending champion in that competition. How does that feel?
Arnar Freyr Arnarsson: I hadn’t really realized that yet. With Melsungen, it was a milestone—the greatest success in the club’s history. But now I’m playing for the SG. First, we have three matches ahead of us in the group stage of this competition, which we want to handle well.
How was your summer break? As far as we know, Icelanders are almost always in Iceland. You too? What’s so special about this island?
Arnar Freyr Arnarsson: My wife and I also spent a week in Barcelona. But it was way too hot there. Iceland in the summer is very beautiful. Ten to 15 degrees—that’s what we like. The longer break from playing is also the only real chance to visit family. We love the nature, the scenery, and the weather. Within five minutes, the sun and snow can alternate. And of course, I also love the people back home.
The SG conceded a relatively high number of goals last season. As an opposing pivot, how did you view the SG’s defense?
Arnar Freyr Arnarsson: Personally, I had a tough time against Blaž Blagotinšek and Johannes Golla. Both are really good. I think the SG has a good defense, and I want to do my part to make sure it stays that way. The SG relies heavily on fast breaks and counterattacks—which generally leads to more goals being scored.