Solbakken shields Haaland from media, striker repays him

Norway's boss pulled his star man from press duty — then watched him answer on the pitch against Portugal.

E. Haaland

player

View profile →

What happened. Norway manager Stale Solbakken withdrew Erling Haaland from pre-match media duties ahead of the Portugal clash, and the striker responded by scoring in the game.

• Haaland was due to appear at a pre-match press conference on Saturday before being pulled.
• Solbakken explained the decision to keep his striker away from the media.
• The Manchester City forward repaid that protection with a goal against Portugal.

Solbakken's handling of his star striker will be judged on whether Norway keep getting goals like this.

In this story

E. HaalandS. SolbakkenManchester City

More to read

CaughtOffside

Arsenal linked with sensational move for game-changing Man City player

Mirror Football

Real Madrid make Erling Haaland transfer decision after Man City learn 'likely' punishment

Mirror Football

Erling Haaland's dad admitted his son could leave Man City and named six clubs he could join

Football.London

Erling Haaland to Arsenal transfer reality clear as 'contacted' claims made over Man City striker