Burnley’s unique squad-bonding twist has taken another turn after Hjalmar Ekdal openly admitted to being one of this season’s ‘Traitors’. Speaking to Swedish outlet Aftonbladet, the 26-year-old confessed that his teammates may have already worked him out, joking that he expects to be “voted out right away.”
For the uninitiated, The Traitors is a hit BBC reality show built around secrecy, bluffing, and deduction. A select group of hidden “Traitors” aim to eliminate the “Faithful” contestants while avoiding exposure, with all players competing in challenges to build a collective prize pot. The game has captivated TV audiences — and, as Burnley fans learned last year in the club’s behind-the-scenes documentary Burnley: Keeping the Faith, it has also become a regular feature at Turf Moor.
The Clarets introduced their own version of The Traitors in January 2024 as a light-hearted way to integrate new signings. It proved such a hit that the club officially collaborated with the BBC production team to create a Burnley FC special edition. The squad enjoyed it so much that the ritual has continued into this season.
Ekdal reveals his role – and his fears
Ekdal didn’t shy away from confirming his role when asked if he had been chosen as a Traitor in the latest round of the game.
“Yes, I am… but I would have preferred to be faithful. I think I’ll be voted out right away.” — Hjalmar Ekdal to Aftonbladet
The Sweden international suggested that one of his Danish teammates has already identified him as a Traitor and is working to convince the rest of the squad. Whether this is the truth or simply a clever bluff remains to be seen.
Why Burnley keep playing The Traitors
While it might sound like a simple prank, Burnley’s adaptation of the show has served a genuine purpose. With a host of new arrivals each season, the game has become a valuable way to build trust, encourage communication, and strengthen bonds in what can often be a fractured dressing room.
Manager Scott Parker has previously praised the initiative, highlighting how unconventional team-building methods can help maintain spirit through the demands of a Premier League campaign.
Burnley ‘Traitors’ Game | Key Details |
---|---|
Introduced | January 2024 |
Format | Based on BBC’s *The Traitors* |
Purpose | Team bonding & integration |
Current twist | Ekdal admits role as Traitor |
source: Burnley FC documentary & Aftonbladet interview
The continuation of the game this season highlights Burnley’s commitment to maintaining togetherness, even in testing times on the pitch.
Analyst Verdict: Harmless fun or mind games?
FootballPlace analyst John William notes that such activities may seem trivial but can play a big role in team morale. “Football squads often rely on small rituals and inside jokes to build unity. Burnley’s version of The Traitors brings laughter and camaraderie. However, it also creates playful tension, which could sharpen competitive edges in training.”
William adds: “Ekdal’s admission may itself be part of the game — letting his guard down in the media to confuse teammates. If so, it shows just how deeply Burnley have embraced the psychological side of the challenge.”
Key Insights
- Hjalmar Ekdal has admitted he is one of Burnley’s ‘Traitors’.
- The squad adapted the BBC show The Traitors as a team-building exercise.
- A Danish teammate has already suspected him, according to Ekdal.
- The game helps new signings integrate and keeps dressing-room spirits high.
- Parker has encouraged unconventional bonding methods at Burnley.
What’s Next for Ekdal and Burnley?
While his fate in the dressing-room game remains uncertain, Ekdal will hope the playful “hostility” doesn’t spill into Burnley’s real fixtures. The Clarets face Aston Villa this weekend (tomorrow), and the defender will likely be in contention for selection.
As for the squad’s Traitors game, the intrigue will continue to unfold behind closed doors — unless Burnley decide to reveal more through their media channels. For fans, it adds another quirky layer to the club’s identity, showing that even in the pressure-cooker of the Premier League, there’s room for creativity and fun.
👉 Do you think Ekdal is really a Traitor — or is this all part of a clever double bluff?
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