Edgar Navassardian: "It’s upsetting that I didn’t receive a call-up to the Armenia U21 national team"

21-year-old forward of Swedish club Östersund, Edgar Navassardian, is one of the brightest Armenian footballers in Scandinavia. In the 2024 season, he became the true leader of Örebro Syrianska, scoring 13 goals and providing 1 assist in 28 matches in Sweden's third division. His performance helped the club finish 10th, and Navassardian attracted attention at a higher level.

In winter, he transferred to Östersund, which plays in Superettan — the second tier of Swedish football. Due to an injury, he missed the start of the season, but has now recovered and played a full match in round 9.

Sportaran spoke with Edgar Navassardian at the end of the 2024 season — shortly before his transfer to Östersund.

— How was the season? Did the team meet its goals?
— When I joined the team, my goal was to help the club as much as possible. I think I succeeded. We had good results in the spring, but slowed down a bit in the autumn. I believe we could have finished higher in the table.

— You scored a lot in your first season. How did you manage to become a team leader right away?
— I worked very hard, focused on training, and used every opportunity. I was concentrated on scoring to influence the team's results.

— Which goal was the most memorable for you this season?
— The free-kick goal against Assyriska. It was a great shot, bounced off the crossbar, and the goalkeeper couldn’t react in time.
(Video: watch)

— People compare you to Ibrahimović. What do you think about that?
— Yes, I hear that often. But I’m Navassardian, and no one else. Of course, Zlatan is a legend.

— Is it difficult to reach Allsvenskan, Sweden’s top division?
— It is tough, but nothing is impossible. If you train hard, eat well, and stick to a routine, you can get there eventually. The main thing is motivation and a clear goal.

— You’ve been with the Armenia U21 squad before, but didn’t play. Was it due to paperwork or lack of an official invitation?
— Honestly, it’s upsetting that I didn’t receive an official invitation. I reached out to them, but never got a reply. I have no problems with documents, and I’m sure I have the skills to be called up. But it’s the coach’s decision, and there’s nothing I can do about it.

— Tell us a bit about your family.
— My father was a professional fencer, competed at the World Championship. He now works as a coach in Sweden. My brother used to be a kickboxer.

— Do you visit Armenia often?
— Yes, whenever I get the chance. My grandmother, aunt, and many friends live in Armenia. It’s always nice to see them.

— Your favorite player and team?
— Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ahead of the match against Cyprus: Full guide to Armenia U21 national team players