Herman Johansson signed for FC Dallas at the turn of the year, a month after winning the Swedish Championship with Mjällby and making his national-team debut at home against Slovenia in the failed World Cup qualifier.
At the time, he had no idea that six months later he would take his usual place in the locker room - as a World Cup player. Johansson, initially designated as a reserve, was given the 26th and final spot in the squad after Emil Holm had his championship dream shattered by injury.
"It's clear that you feel proud and honored to be part of this journey," says Johansson.
He describes the fact that the biggest adventure of his career largely takes place on home turf as "special." As the guy from the city, he is the one his teammates turn to when they want to experience Dallas in their free time.
"Trying to give advice"
Johansson acknowledges that there is potential for improvement in local knowledge.
The guys ask a lot of questions, as if I've been here for years. I'm still learning. I try to give them the tips and advice I can about what to do, places I think are cool to go and stuff.
In Ångermanland, a local newspaper is making a big deal out of Johansson being in the World Cup.
I know it's been written that it's bigger than 'Foppa', the biggest thing that's ever happened. I don't know if I agree.
He considers hockey legend Peter Forsberg an athlete with significantly greater merit.
A great sports role model. I remember when I was about 10, I would go to YouTube every day and watch his clips, even though I didn't play hockey, that's what I watched.
He's 'the guy'. Just being mentioned in the same sentence is a bit half-hearted.
Have you met?
"I've seen him at ICA once, but I haven't said anything," says Johansson, laughing.
Didn't feel ready
After a strong performance in the playoff semi-final against Ukraine, he was considered to be a starter against Poland. Instead, he watched the match from the stands.
He didn't feel ready - and went to national team captain Graham Potter and told him.
I didn't feel fully recovered. Neither mentally nor physically. Then it was better for someone else to play. In a match like that, when everything is at stake, it felt most "fair" to play someone else.
How did Potter react?
He was very understanding. There were no problems.
Sweden plays its World Cup opener against Tunisia on Monday night, local time in Sweden.
