Arvydas Novikovas Joins FA Šiauliai

Arvydas Novikovas, a 35-year-old veteran footballer, has joined FA Šiauliai to apply his professional experience to the team’s current campaign. Novikovas, who has earned 97 caps for the Lithuanian national team, stated he feels physically prepared and motivated to contribute to the team’s success despite his age.

How does Novikovas maintain professional fitness at 35?

Novikovas maintains that his age does not hinder his performance on the pitch. He stated that “years are just a number” and confirmed he feels great and remains motivated to help FA Šiauliai achieve victories.

The athlete’s readiness follows a 2026 season start with Vilniaus Riteriai. He now aims to provide a professional example for younger teammates through his actions and work ethic both on and off the field.

Did You Know? Novikovas spent a significant portion of his career in Poland with Jagiellonia, where he played 94 matches, scoring 22 goals and recording 18 assists.

Why does veteran experience impact team health and performance?

According to Novikovas, his role involves sharing the experience gathered over a career that spans multiple European leagues. This includes stints with VfL Bochum in Germany, Hearts in Edinburgh, Legia Warsaw, Erzurumspor in Turkey, and Hapoel Haifa in Israel.

Novikovas noted that returning to a well-organized environment allows specific professional details to become apparent. He attributes his move to FA Šiauliai to a clear and concrete offer from Saulius Mikoliūnas.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the integration of a 35-year-old veteran into a squad often creates a psychological bridge between coaching staff and younger players. The trade-off involves balancing a player’s extensive tactical knowledge against the natural physiological changes associated with aging in high-impact sports.

What is the professional trajectory of Arvydas Novikovas?

Novikovas has been a fixture of the Lithuanian national team since 2010, scoring 12 goals across 97 appearances. He has also competed in UEFA tournament qualifiers throughout his career.

Laikas futbolui. 1 laida. Arvydas Novikovas

He will now wear the number 11 jersey for FA Šiauliai. The player is scheduled to appear in the upcoming TOPLYGA round in Panevėžy.

What may happen next for the player and team?

FA Šiauliai could see a climb in the tournament standings if Novikovas successfully integrates into the lineup. A possible next step includes a cup match against Džiugu, which Novikovas identified as a primary motivation for the squad.

The team may seek to leverage Novikovas’s ability to score goals and provide assists to secure more wins. His presence is likely to be used as a benchmark for younger players’ development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many matches has Arvydas Novikovas played for the Lithuanian national team?
He has played 97 matches and scored 12 goals since 2010.

Which club did Novikovas play for most prominently in Poland?
He played for Jagiellonia, where he made 94 appearances.

What is Novikovas’s current goal for his time at FA Šiauliai?
He aims to be useful to the team by scoring goals, providing assists, and helping the team climb the tournament table and compete for the cup.

How do you think veteran experience impacts the physical and mental performance of younger athletes in professional sports?