As reported by futbolas.lt, Arvydas Novikovas, a three-time recipient of Lithuania’s Footballer of the Year award, is set to begin the upcoming season in Pirma lyga.
The 34-year-old winger has joined the ranks of Baltijos Futbolo Akademija (BFA), a team that secured a ninth-place finish last season. A.Novikovas made his debut in BFA colors today during a friendly match against Estonia’s Second League side, Tartu JK Welco.
According to futbolas.lt, Novikovas received offers from A Lyga clubs. However, after unsuccessful negotiations, he accepted an invitation from his first coach, Ivan Švabovič, to return to his roots. Notably, his contract includes a clause allowing him to leave if a favorable offer arises.
Last year, after an extensive search for a club, Novikovas concluded the season with FK TransINVEST. His career has been marked by international stints, including time with Erzurumspor and Samsunspor in Turkey, as well as Hapoel Haifa in Israel. In 2023, he returned to Lithuania to play for Žalgiris Vilnius before moving back to Turkey with Tuzlaspor in early 2024. His return to Lithuanian football underscores his commitment to contributing to the sport in his home country.
Source: https://www.sportas.lt/naujiena/515794/a-novikovas-karjera-tes-gimtajame-bfa-klube