What happened?

GIF Sundsvall has officially introduced Per Joar Hansen as the new head coach, with 77‑year‑old Lars Lagerbäck acting as an advisor present at selected occasions. The club’s website states that Lagerbäck will "assist as an advisor but also be on site during a number of occasions." Hansen, who previously worked in Sundsvall, steps in aiming to reverse the team’s current standing – 11th in Superettan with 40 points after 30 games and a recent form of DDLLL.

Why is Lagerbäck’s role important for GIF Sundsvall?

Lagerbäck has previously served as an advisor to the club, but now his involvement is more structured. "My role is a bit hard to describe, but Per is the boss and I am one of those trying to help him as much as I can," he said on Instagram. His experience from Norway’s men’s national team, where he worked with Hansen, provides a unique blend of tactics and mental support. For a side that has conceded 38 goals while scoring 36 – a –2 goal difference – that extra analytical edge could be decisive.

How does this affect the team’s current situation?

With seven points left to reach safety and 25 points behind leaders Vasteras SK FK, the pressure to collect points is high. Hansen’s immediate task: tighten the defense and boost scoring. Top scorer H. Aviander has only 2 goals in 13 appearances, so a new offensive plan is needed. Lagerbäck’s presence can bring training sessions focused on build‑up play and pressing, potentially reducing the number of goals conceded.

What’s the next step?

The first major test comes in the away fixture against Norrby IF on 20 July 2026. If Hansen and Lagerbäck manage to get the side playing more compactly, they could reverse the current DDLLL form. Although Lagerbäck will not be full‑time, his experience is enough to provide critical insights before each match. For GIF Sundsvall this means a chance to regain control of the table and perhaps secure a safer position before the season ends.

What future lies ahead for GIF Sundsvall?

Should the partnership between Hansen and Lagerbäck bear fruit, the club could build a stable foundation for next season. With a new training philosophy and clear targets – reduce goals against to under 30 and increase own scoring to at least 45 – GIF Sundsvall may reclaim its status as one of Superettan’s strongest clubs. For supporters, it’s an exciting period to watch, with fresh ideas and an experienced support team behind the squad.