Gudjon Thordarson's first managerial appointment in England came with Stoke City in November 1999 after being the Head Coach of the Icelandic national team.

Prior to Stoke City, Thordarson enjoyed a successful spell as manager of the Iceland. During his three years the side were very close to qualifying to the European Championship in 2000.

His spell with the national team came after managing several league clubs in Iceland where he achieved 4 league championships, 4 Icelandic cups and 1 Icelandic league cup.

Combining his managerial experience in Iceland, Thordarson has managed Stoke City, Barnsley, Notts County and now Crewe Alexandra.

Thordarson enjoyed success at Stoke City where he guided the club to the Auto Windscreen trophy final win over Bristol City, at the old Wembley in 2000. He also led the club to promotion in the play-off final against Brentford with a 2-0 win at the Millennium Stadium in 2002.

Thordarson returned to the UK as manager of Crewe Alexandra in December 2008, where he would remain in position until October 2009.

As a player, Thordarson represented his country and won 5 Icelandic championships as well as 5 Icelandic cups.