Following the opening of the summer transfer window in Lithuania, FA Šiauliai have strengthened their squad by signing one of the country’s most recognizable footballers of the last decade. The club announced the arrival of 35-year-old winger Arvydas Novikovas.
A three-time Lithuanian Footballer of the Year, Novikovas has enjoyed a lengthy professional career across Europe, representing clubs such as Jagiellonia Białystok, Hearts, Legia Warsaw, VfL Bochum, Erzurumspor and Hapoel Haifa among others.
The winger arguably left his biggest mark in Poland with Jagiellonia Białystok, where he made 94 appearances, scored 22 goals and contributed 18 assists. Throughout his career, Novikovas also featured regularly in UEFA club competitions and remained one of the most recognizable names in Lithuanian football.
His international career has been equally impressive. Since making his debut for Lithuania in 2010, Novikovas has gone on to earn 97 caps and score 12 goals for the national team, making him one of the most-capped players in the country’s history.
Novikovas began the 2026 season with Riteriai playing 17 league games, but will now continue his career with Šiauliai, where he will wear the number 11 shirt. Supporters could see him make his debut as early as the upcoming Toplyga fixture against Panevėžys.
Speaking after completing the move, Novikovas explained that the club’s direct approach was one of the main reasons behind his decision.
“While I was with the national team, I received a call from Saulius Mikoliūnas about the possibility of joining Šiauliai. There were other clubs interested, but not many concrete offers. Šiauliai approached me clearly and directly, and after discussing everything, we quickly found common ground.”
The veteran also praised the club’s professionalism and outlined his ambitions for the remainder of the season.
“The first impression was very positive. You can see the club has a clear direction, ambitious goals and professional people working here. I want to use my experience to help the younger players, contribute with goals and assists, and help the team achieve its objectives. The goals are the highest possible – to win as many matches as we can, climb the table and compete for trophies.”
FA Šiauliai who currently are ninth in the league table will play their next game on Saturday away against Panevežys.
Source: https://siauliufa.lt/siauliuose-rungtyniaus-vienas-zinomiausiu-lietuvos-futbolininku/
