This man is an institution at Brynäs. © Brynäs IF

Clara welcomes an NHL legend to Brynäs

The traditional Swedish club Brynäs IF caused a stir internationally with a transfer announcement on Monday. Meanwhile, Damian Clara was welcomed with open arms by the 13-time Swedish champions.

July 28, 2025

From: leo

Damian Clara's return to the Swedish team from Gävle This not only delighted the South Tyrolean himself, but also Brynäs's large following. "The feeling of happiness is overwhelming, especially now that this rumor has actually been confirmed," wrote one social media user. Another commented: "Welcome home Damian."

The South Tyrolean's numerous published videos also demonstrate that the South Tyrolean, who delights fans with his accent-free Swedish, feels completely at home here. As can be seen in photos on social media, Clara completed her first training session with the current SHL runner-up on Monday. At his side: former NHL goalie Collin Delia, whom the Pustertal native intends to challenge for the role of number one goalie this upcoming season.

Damian Clara at his first training session. © Brynäs IF

On the same day Clara completed his first training session with the team, Brynäs dropped a bombshell. The club brought back one of the best Swedish players of all time, Nicklas Bäckström. The 37-year-old progressed through the youth ranks at Brynäs and made his debut in the Swedish top flight in 2004 before being drafted fourth overall in the 2006 NHL Draft and embarking on an extraordinary career. Bäckström won the Stanley Cup, was a two-time World Champion, won the silver medal at the 2014 Olympic Games, and was Alexander Ovechkin's congenial strike partner for 17 years with the Washington Capitals.

Bäckström has not had enough

In the world's best league, he collected an incredible 1147 points in 1244 games. However, due to a chronic hip injury, he only played eight games in the last two seasons. Many were already talking about the end of the center forward's career, who underwent surgery in 2022 and is now looking to get back to his best.


"I've always wanted to play for Brynäs again if the opportunity arose. After my rehabilitation and almost two years off, I feel very motivated and full of energy to contribute to the club's success," the Swedish legend was quoted as saying in an initial statement. One thing is certain: With his experience, Bäckström will not only enrich Brynäs in the coming season, but will also support Clara on its journey to the world's best league.