Arnor Sigurdsson has launched a scathing attack on Blackburn Rovers after his sudden departure from the Championship club, accusing them of acting dishonestly in the handling of his exit.
The Icelandic international has joined Swedish side Malmo on a three-year deal following the early termination of his contract at Ewood Park. The 25-year-old had been sidelined with an injury since October but had expected to play a key role upon his return.
However, following the closure of the January transfer window, Rovers informed him that he was not part of their plans, leaving him frustrated and with limited options.
“First of all, I just think it’s dishonest with the club, the way they do this,” Sigurdsson said. “I’ve always been a professional in this, always given my all for the club, but then they decide to do it like this. Wait for the transfer window to close and then tell me this.”
‘Thrown Away’ After Injury
Sigurdsson had hoped to make an impact in Blackburn’s push for the play-offs, having been reassured of his importance to the squad.
“They put me in an impossible position. My contract was expiring after the season and I’ve been injured. It’s maybe easy to throw someone away when you’re not going to renegotiate,” he continued.
“Both the coach and the club’s management had spoken to me and told me how important I would be to the team for these last few games in the fight for a play-off spot in the league. That I could make the difference. But then you get this in your face.”
From Champions League Nights to Ewood Park Exit
Sigurdsson’s career has taken him across several leagues in Europe. After making his name with Norrköping in Sweden, he moved to Russian giants CSKA Moscow, where he became the youngest Icelandic player to feature in the UEFA Champions League. His highlight came when he scored in a 3-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2018.
After a loan spell with Venezia in Serie A, he returned to Norrköping in 2022, taking advantage of FIFA regulations allowing players to suspend contracts in Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. He then joined Blackburn Rovers in 2023, initially on loan, before making the move permanent.
Writer’s View
Sigurdsson’s anger is understandable—being promised a key role only to be discarded after the transfer window closed is bound to cause frustration. While injuries undoubtedly played a role in Blackburn’s decision, the timing raises concerns about transparency. With his talent and experience, Malmo could prove to be the ideal place for him to rebuild his career, but the manner of his exit from Ewood Park will not be forgotten quickly.
