Bodø/Glimt's Helmersen: 'Once it was strange to think about'

Andreas Helmersen, 28, is experiencing a career high, dominating in Bodø/Glimt's Champions League playoff matches. His crucial performance in their 3-1 away victory against NEC Nijmegen, marked by a penalty goal and strong playmaking, highlights his significant influence. Helmersen has consistently demonstrated his ability to win aerial duels and effectively pass the ball to teammates, proving vital to the team's success.

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It is of course something I have looked forward to and worked incredibly hard for. For a long time.

Helmersen's journey to this point has been arduous, marked by significant setbacks early in his career. He suffered three ACL tears and required meniscus surgery within three years, a period that saw him move from being a promising youth player at Rosenborg to playing in lower divisions with Raufoss and Egersund. This path, described as a "strange career," required immense patience and resilience.

After joining Glimt in 2024, Helmersen initially served as a backup to Kasper Høgh. However, with Høgh's summer transfer to Celtic, the striker position became available, offering Helmersen a prime opportunity. He has seized this chance, focusing on continuous improvement and making the most of his playing time. Helmersen credits his success to unwavering patience, hard work, and a refusal to give up, alongside enjoying the game of football itself.

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I have had a strange career, you could say. It feels good to feel that things are finally starting to loosen up more and more. I feel very good now.

His teammates and coaches recognize his dedication. "He has persevered and worked over time. It shows when he gets the opportunity. We have seen a lot of quality in him," said Sondre Brunstad Fet. Coach Patrick Berg noted Helmersen's hard work and resilience, stating he "bounced back in an excellent way."

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Once upon a time, it was strange to think that one would play Champions League and various things. I have worked diligently anyway, and done things I can do based on the situation.

Bodø/Glimt holds a strong advantage heading into the return leg against Nijmegen. A victory would secure their place in the Champions League group stage for the second consecutive time, a historic achievement for the club.

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It is the fact that I never gave up, first and foremost. And I have been patient in what I do and just enjoyed football.