In a proud moment for Icelandic football, the daughter of former Premier League star Hermann Hreidarsson has emulated her father by earning her first senior caps for the national team. Ida Marin Hermannsdottir, aged 23, debuted against Spain last Tuesday and featured again in Iceland's 2-0 defeat by England on Saturday, marking a significant step in her burgeoning career.
A Family Legacy in Football
Hermann Hreidarsson, a cult hero in English football during the 2000s with clubs like Portsmouth, Charlton, and Ipswich, amassed an impressive 89 caps for Iceland as a defender. Now 51, he watched from the stands at the City Ground as his daughter played 63 minutes against England, symbolising the passing of the baton to the next generation.
Ida Marin's Career Path
Ida Marin, who operates in midfield, began her football journey at Icelandic club Fylkir before transferring to Valur and later joining FH (Fimleikafelag Hafnarfjordur) in 2024. Her development mirrors her father's early days, who started at IBV in 1993 before moving to England four years later, where he spent two decades in the Premier League.
Hermann Hreidarsson's Illustrious Career
Hreidarsson's English career kicked off at Crystal Palace in 1997, followed by stints at Brentford, Wimbledon, Ipswich, Charlton, Portsmouth, and Coventry, totalling 332 Premier League appearances. His crowning achievement came in the 2007-08 season when he helped Portsmouth secure a historic FA Cup victory at Wembley.
Post-Retirement and Management
Since retiring in 2014, Hreidarsson has transitioned into management, coaching various teams in Iceland. In 2025, he took the helm at Valur, shortly after his daughter's move to FH, and led the team to win the Icelandic League Cup in his debut season, showcasing his continued influence in the sport.
This debut not only highlights Ida Marin's talent but also underscores a deep-rooted family connection to Icelandic football, with Hreidarsson's legacy now extending to the international stage through his daughter's achievements.
