Estonian striker Robi Saarma has officially embarked on a new chapter in his career, joining Czech First League side FK Pardubice. The 24-year-old forward, who has represented the Estonian national team eight times, leaves behind a successful spell at Paide Linnameeskond to pursue his first contract abroad.
Saarma arrived in Pardubice on Monday afternoon, completing his medical checks, signing the contract, and attending his first media duties. Despite the whirlwind start, the striker is already enjoying life in the East Bohemian city.
“I really like the atmosphere here,” Saarma said during his unveiling. “Pardubice reminds me a bit of Tallinn, my hometown. It feels almost like coming home. I’m still settling in, of course, but I have to say I really like it so far.”
Saarma was a key figure for Paide since joining in 2022, quickly establishing himself as the team’s most prolific scorer. In his debut season in Estonia’s Premium Liiga, he netted 16 goals, and followed that with 15 more the last season. Altogether, he made 117 appearances for Paide and scored 43 goals. In the current season, before his transfer, he had already recorded 8 goals and 5 assists in 19 matches.
His productivity and technical abilities haven’t gone unnoticed in Pardubice. Club football consultant Jiří Krejčí praised the new signing: “Robi is a two-footed forward who’s very dangerous in attack. He’s aggressive, quick, and has real footballing intelligence. He knows how to get into scoring positions inside the box. We expect him to contribute significantly with his goals and intensity.”
Saarma himself has clear goals for his time at FK Pardubice. “My biggest aim is to play as much as possible,” he said. “Of course, I also want to score and provide assists – that’s my job as a striker. I believe the team can succeed and we’ll do well together.”
The Estonian forward describes himself as a ball-oriented player who enjoys dictating play. “I love being on the ball. I try to influence how the game flows. When the ball’s at my right foot, fans can expect something to happen. I’ll be looking to challenge defenses and create scoring chances.”
Krejčí further emphasized Saarma’s international pedigree and potential impact on the team: “He wanted to take the next step in his career, and the Czech league caught his eye. He’s got great shooting technique and performs well in one-on-one situations. He’s played for Estonia against nations like Norway, Slovakia, and Sweden – those experiences will help him bring leadership and maturity to our squad.”
Saarma also reunites in Pardubice with French midfielder Dominique Simon, his former teammate from Paide. “I have great memories of playing with Dominique,” Saarma said. “We both work really hard, and I was sad to see him leave Paide. Now it’s amazing to be together again on the same team. I’m looking forward to growing our friendship and contributing to the success of FK Pardubice.”
Paide sporting director Gert Kams congratulated Saarma on his move: “Robi is another excellent example of a hardworking Estonian player who’s earned his step up through sheer dedication and development. We’re proud that he joins a growing list of Paide talents reaching the European stage.”
Kams also acknowledged the role of agent Harri Ojamaa, noting their continued professional collaboration in making the transfer a reality.
FK Pardubice was founded in 2008 and has been competing in the Czech top flight since the 2020/21 season. In their debut campaign, they achieved their best-ever finish, placing 7th. However, last season the club narrowly avoided relegation, and the new season has started on a difficult note with a heavy 1–5 defeat against Viktoria Plzeň.
