Oliver Berg

Oliver Berg (born 28 August 1993) is a Norwegian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Malmö FF in the Swedish Allsvenskan.^[1][2] Berg began his youth career with SK Gjøvik-Lyn and Raufoss IL before making his professional debut with Odd in Norway's Eliteserien in 2015, where he appeared in limited matches over three seasons, recording one goal and four assists in total.^[3][2] In 2018, he moved to Sweden, joining Dalkurd FF briefly before transferring to GIF Sundsvall, where he established himself as a regular contributor with nine goals and six assists in the 2020 Allsvenskan season.^[3] From 2021 to 2022, Berg played for Kalmar FF, achieving his most prolific form with 21 goals and 13 assists across both seasons in the Allsvenskan, helping the team to mid-table finishes.^[3] He joined Djurgårdens IF in early 2023, contributing three goals and five assists in 19 appearances, before signing with Malmö FF in August of that year on a contract until 2026.^[1][2] At Malmö, Berg has been part of two consecutive Allsvenskan title-winning campaigns in 2023 and 2024, though his goal output has been modest with two goals and nine assists in 40 appearances as of November 2025. In the 2025 season, he recorded 0 goals and 2 assists in 17 appearances.^[3][4][5]

Early life

Birth and upbringing

Oliver Berg was born on 28 August 1993 in Gjøvik, Norway.^[6][7][2] He grew up in Gjøvik, a town known for its active local sports community, where football holds a prominent place among recreational and youth activities.^[8] Berg developed an early connection to the region's football culture, rooted in the area's longstanding tradition of community-based clubs that foster grassroots participation.^[9]

Youth career

Oliver Berg began his involvement in organized football at Gjøvik-Lyn, the local club in his hometown of Gjøvik, Norway, where he progressed through the youth ranks from an early age until 2009.^[1] During this period, he gained experience in competitive youth settings, including participation in the NM G16 Telenor Cup, a national under-16 tournament organized by the Norwegian Football Federation.^[10] In 2010, Berg joined the youth academy of Raufoss IL.^[1] He is right-footed and plays as an attacking midfielder.^[3] This progression in the club's youth system prepared him for the senior level, leading to his transition to the first team in 2010 at the age of 17.^[1]

Club career

Raufoss (2010–2014)

Oliver Berg made his senior debut for Raufoss in the 2. divisjon during the 2010 season at the age of 17, having transitioned from the youth setup at Gjøvik-Lyn earlier that year.^[11] He quickly established himself in the first team, contributing as a versatile forward and midfielder known for his goal-scoring ability in the Norwegian third tier.^[12] Over the four seasons from 2010 to 2014, Berg appeared in 69 matches for Raufoss across all competitions, scoring 27 goals and demonstrating consistent form in a developmental role.^[1] Notable performances included his early contributions in 2010, such as scoring in a 2. divisjon match against Strømsgodset II on 14 September, helping secure a 2–1 victory, and featuring in the Norwegian Cup against local rivals Gjøvik FF in May.^[13][14] His goal tally highlighted his attacking prowess, with frequent inclusions in regional top-scorer lists during the lower-division campaigns.^[15][16] Berg played a key role in Raufoss's competitive efforts, particularly in 2014 when the team finished fourth in 2. divisjon Avdeling 2, narrowly missing promotion to the 1. divisjon after accumulating 46 points from 23 matches. His performances drew attention from higher-tier clubs, leading to a pre-contract agreement with Odd in September 2014 as a Bosman free transfer, effective for the 2015 Eliteserien season to pursue professional opportunities at a top-flight level.^[12]

Odd (2015–2018)

Oliver Berg transferred to Odd from Raufoss on a free transfer in January 2015, marking his entry into Norway's top flight with a professional contract.^[17] This move represented a significant step up for the young attacking midfielder, who had shown promise in the lower divisions. Under manager Dag-Eilev Fagermo, who had been at the helm since 2008, Berg was gradually integrated into the first team, often deployed in central midfield roles to support the attack while contributing defensively.^[18] His tactical fit emphasized quick transitions and creative playmaking, aligning with Odd's counter-attacking style during their competitive Eliteserien seasons. Over three full seasons (2015–2017), Berg made 67 appearances in the Eliteserien, starting 44 matches and logging over 3,700 minutes.^[3] He scored just one goal—a strike in 2017—and recorded four assists, reflecting his adaptation to the higher intensity of top-flight football where opportunities were scarcer compared to his prolific youth output at Raufoss.^[3] Key contributions included an assist in a 2015 Europa League qualifier against Shamrock Rovers, where his run and pull-back created a scoring chance, though Odd advanced on aggregate.^[19] Despite regular involvement, Berg faced stiff competition for starting spots amid Odd's squad depth, particularly in midfield, leading to a rotational role that limited his goal tally but allowed him to develop his all-around game.^[3] Including cup competitions, Berg made 78 appearances across all domestic matches, scoring 10 goals and providing 12 assists. Across all competitions, he appeared 92 times, with 11 goals and 14 assists.^[20] His debut came on April 12, 2015, in a 2–0 league win over Stabæk.^[21] Challenges such as adapting to professional demands and positional rivalry occasionally restricted his starts, but he remained a squad player during Odd's mid-table finishes, including a fourth-place result in 2015.^[3] In January 2018, Berg departed Odd on a free transfer to Swedish club Dalkurd FF, concluding his tenure after contributing to the team's stability in the Eliteserien.^[17]

Dalkurd FF (2018)

In December 2017, Oliver Berg transferred from Odd to Dalkurd FF ahead of the 2018 Allsvenskan season, drawn by the chance to compete in Sweden's top division with the newly promoted club.^[21] Berg featured in 13 Allsvenskan matches for Dalkurd during a difficult campaign, starting 11 and accumulating 911 minutes on the pitch, while also making three appearances in the Svenska Cupen for a total of 16 outings and one goal overall.^[21] His contributions came amid Dalkurd's struggle against relegation, as the team won only three league games and conceded 59 goals in 30 matches. One highlight was his goal in a 3–0 home win over Östersunds FK on 8 April 2018, scoring in the 55th minute with a left-footed shot to make it 2–0, marking Dalkurd's first victory in the top flight.^[22] Adapting to Swedish football's emphasis on pace and physical demands presented challenges for Berg, who noted differences in the league's intensity compared to the Eliteserien during his initial months. He played a supporting role in several tight relegation battles, including starts against strong sides like Malmö FF and IFK Norrköping, though Dalkurd remained rooted near the bottom. Berg's time at Dalkurd lasted just over seven months, ending with his transfer to GIF Sundsvall on 14 August 2018 after the club's poor form and impending demotion to Superettan.^[21]

GIF Sundsvall (2018–2020)

In August 2018, Oliver Berg transferred from Dalkurd FF to GIF Sundsvall for an undisclosed fee, signing a contract until January 2021.^[23][21] Over the course of his two-and-a-half-year stint with the club, Berg made 66 appearances and scored 11 goals in league play, primarily operating as an attacking midfielder.^[24] Berg's debut season in the 2018 Allsvenskan was transitional, with 13 appearances following his mid-season arrival, during which he contributed 1 goal while adapting to the Swedish top flight.^[24] The following year, 2019, proved challenging for GIF Sundsvall, who finished 15th in the Allsvenskan and were relegated to Superettan after accumulating only 20 points from 30 matches.^[25] Berg featured in 23 league games that season, starting 17 and recording 1 goal alongside 4 assists, often deployed on the flanks or in central midfield to support the team's survival efforts.^[24][26] In the 2020 Superettan campaign, Berg emerged as a key contributor amid GIF Sundsvall's promotion push, helping the side secure a 6th-place finish with 43 points from 30 matches.^[27] He played all 30 league fixtures, scoring 9 goals and providing 6 assists—his most productive spell at the club—while showcasing versatility by shifting between forward and midfield roles to aid the team's attacking transitions.^[24][21] Notable contributions included a goal in a 3-1 victory over Ljungskile SK and involvement in high-scoring wins like 5-2 against the same opponent later in the season.^[28] Despite the solid individual output, the team fell short of automatic promotion. Berg's contract expired at the end of 2020, paving the way for his free transfer to Kalmar FF in January 2021.^[21]

Kalmar FF (2021–2022)

In January 2021, Oliver Berg joined Kalmar FF on a free transfer from GIF Sundsvall, marking his return to the Allsvenskan after a stint in the Superettan. During his debut 2021 season, Berg quickly established himself as a key attacking threat, making 30 appearances in the Allsvenskan while scoring 12 goals and providing 5 assists for a total of 17 direct goal contributions.^[29] These figures represented a significant resurgence in form compared to his prior experiences, with Berg often opening the scoring in eight different matches, underscoring his role in igniting Kalmar's offensive transitions.^[30] Under head coach Henrik Rydström, who took charge in 2020, Berg thrived in a fluid 4-3-3 system that emphasized quick ball progression and central creativity, allowing him to enhance his positioning and decision-making in the final third.^[31] His contributions were pivotal to Kalmar FF's solid mid-table campaign, culminating in a 6th-place finish with 47 points.^[32] Berg's development continued into the 2022 Allsvenskan season, where he earned consistent starts across 29 matches, netting 9 goals and delivering 8 assists while accumulating over 2,600 minutes on the pitch.^[29] Rydström's tactical setup further amplified Berg's attacking output, positioning him as a versatile playmaker who linked midfield and forward lines effectively, with standout moments including a goal in a 2-0 victory over Varbergs BoIS that highlighted his clinical finishing.^[31] This reliability helped stabilize Kalmar FF's attack during a competitive season, contributing to an improved 4th-place standing and qualification for the UEFA Europa Conference League.^[32] Berg later reflected on his close bond with Rydström, describing it as a "special relation" that fostered his growth over the two years at the club.^[33] At the end of his contract in December 2022, Berg departed Kalmar FF for Djurgårdens IF on another free transfer in January 2023, concluding a period that revitalized his career with 21 goals and 13 assists in 59 league appearances.

Djurgårdens IF (2023)

In January 2023, Oliver Berg transferred to Djurgårdens IF on a free transfer from Kalmar FF, signing a three-year contract ahead of the Allsvenskan season.^[1] As an attacking midfielder, he quickly integrated into the squad, providing versatility in midfield and contributing to the team's offensive transitions. Berg enjoyed a breakout season in the 2023 Allsvenskan, appearing in 19 matches and recording 3 goals and 5 assists, which led the club's internal points chart for direct contributions.^[2] His performances were pivotal in Djurgårdens IF's push for a top-four finish, including key assists in matches against rivals that helped maintain their position in the title race. Tactically, Berg's role emphasized linking defense to attack, often operating on the right flank to deliver crosses and create scoring opportunities, enhancing the team's overall fluidity.^[34] Additionally, Berg featured in the 2023–24 UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers, making one appearance as Djurgårdens IF advanced through the early rounds. His domestic form culminated in a mid-season move to Malmö FF on 21 August 2023, where he was sold for a transfer fee of €1 million.

Malmö FF (2023–present)

On August 21, 2023, Oliver Berg transferred to Malmö FF from Djurgårdens IF for a reported fee of €1 million, signing a contract until December 31, 2026.^[1][35] He was assigned squad number 16 and quickly adapted to the high-pressure environment of Sweden's most successful club, establishing himself as a versatile attacking midfielder in a squad aiming for domestic dominance.^[36][1] Berg joined Malmö FF late in the 2023 Allsvenskan season, making 6 appearances with 2 goals and 3 assists as the team secured the league title for the first time in his tenure.^[37] His goals came in crucial matches during the title run-in, helping Malmö FF clinch the championship on the final day.^[38] In the 2023/24 Svenska Cupen, which Malmö FF won, Berg had limited involvement due to his mid-season arrival but contributed to the squad's depth in later rounds.^[21] No European appearances were recorded that year, as the club had already exited Champions League qualifying before his signing.^[39] The 2024 season marked Berg's full integration into the team, where he played 17 Allsvenskan matches, recording 4 assists without goals, supporting Malmö FF's successful defense of the Allsvenskan title.^[37][38] In the Svenska Cupen, he featured in 4 games, scoring 1 goal en route to the title win against Djurgårdens IF in the final.^[39][21] European campaigns saw him make 3 appearances in UEFA Champions League qualifying and 8 in the Europa League group stage, providing rotational stability without direct goal contributions.^[39] His consistent performances underscored his role in the team's back-to-back league successes and cup triumph, emphasizing tactical discipline over individual flair. In 2025, Berg faced a setback with a foot injury sidelining him from February to March, but he made 17 Allsvenskan appearances with 2 assists and no goals. Malmö FF finished 6th with 49 points from 30 matches.^[39][37][40] Following their 6th-place finish, Malmö FF qualified for the 2025/26 UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers as 2024 champions and cup runners-up. In the 2024/25 Svenska Cupen, Malmö FF reached the final but lost on penalties to BK Häcken.^[39] As of November 2025, his market value stands at €400,000, reflecting steady contribution in a dominant squad, with his contract extending through 2026 positioning him for continued involvement in Malmö FF's title pursuits.^[1]

International career

Youth international career

Oliver Berg has no recorded appearances for any of Norway's youth national teams, such as the U17, U19, or U21 squads.^[1] Comprehensive player databases and official football records do not document any involvement in youth international training camps, tournaments, or selections during his early career.^[41]

Senior international career

Oliver Berg has not earned any senior international caps for the Norway national football team as of November 2025, maintaining a total of zero appearances.^[1][3] No records indicate any call-ups to the senior squad under coaches such as Ståle Solbakken, despite Berg's consistent performances in Swedish club football.

Honours

Club honours

Oliver Berg won his first major club honour in 2023 when Malmö FF clinched the Allsvenskan title, Sweden's top football league championship. Having joined the club on 21 August 2023 from Djurgårdens IF, Berg made 6 league appearances, accumulating approximately 400 minutes on the pitch and recording 2 goals and 3 assists, contributing to the team's successful title defence in the latter part of the season.^[3] Malmö FF secured the championship on the final matchday with a 1–0 victory over IF Elfsborg on 12 November 2023.^[42] In the 2023/24 Svenska Cupen, Berg played a supporting role as a key squad member, featuring in 8 matches for a total of approximately 500 minutes during the competition.^[3] Malmö FF won their 16th cup title by defeating Djurgårdens IF 1–1 after extra time (4–1 on penalties) in the final on 1 May 2024 at Eleda Stadion.^[43][44] Berg was a full-season contributor to Malmö FF's 2024 Allsvenskan triumph, their 24th league title overall, appearing in 17 matches, logging 561 minutes, and recording 0 goals and 4 assists.^[3] The team sealed the championship with two games remaining via a 2–1 home win against IFK Göteborg on 28 October 2024.^[45] In 2025, Berg appeared in 17 Allsvenskan matches for Malmö FF (0 goals, 2 assists) as the team finished without the title, won by Mjällby AIF. He also featured in 2 matches during the 2024/25 Svenska Cupen, where Malmö reached the final but lost to BK Häcken on penalties (0–0 after extra time, 2–4 on penalties) on 29 May 2025, finishing as runners-up.^[3][46] No other club honours were achieved during Berg's tenures with Odd, Dalkurd FF, GIF Sundsvall, Kalmar FF, or Djurgårdens IF, though he participated in promotional efforts and European qualifiers without securing trophies.^[6]

Individual awards

During his time at Djurgårdens IF in 2023, Berg topped the club's internal points chart with 3 goals and 5 assists in 19 Allsvenskan appearances.^[2][3] Berg has not received major Allsvenskan individual honors such as Player of the Month or Team of the Season selections as of the end of the 2025 season. Across his professional career in domestic leagues up to 2025, Berg has recorded 51 goals and 41 assists in 283 appearances.^[3] His market value peaked at €1.2 million during 2021, according to Transfermarkt assessments, reflecting his strong performances at GIF Sundsvall and Kalmar FF.^[47]