Norway manager Stale Solbakken says Erling Haaland is “completely normal” despite the recent news surrounding Manchester City’s alleged violations.
Haaland has been the subject of questions ahead of Norway’s match against Wales, but Solbakken said the striker’s form and behaviour in training had not been affected.
“Very good, he’s been scoring continuously,” Solbakken said when asked about Haaland’s state of mind.
He acknowledged that Haaland had missed one opportunity he would normally be expected to convert, but said that was the only concern he had noticed.
“He missed a shot from an opportunity he usually wouldn’t miss, but that’s the only flaw I’ve seen. He’s currently in great form,” said Solbakken.
Asked whether he had discussed Manchester City’s situation privately with Haaland, Solbakken replied: “What we talked about between us is private.”
He added: “Everything is normal.”
Solbakken also rejected the suggestion that he needed to manage the off-field issue himself.
“I don’t need to deal with that. That’s not something I need to handle,” he said. “I shouldn’t even get involved in that topic; it’s not even one percent of my job.”
Solbakken wary of Wales threat
Norway are regarded by some as favourites for their game against Wales, but Solbakken said his side would approach the match with “the utmost respect” for their opponents.
He praised Wales manager Bellamy, saying he had done “an excellent job” and introduced a modern tactical approach that was benefiting Welsh football.
Solbakken pointed to Wales’ performances against Denmark and Portugal as evidence of their quality. He noted that Wales conceded twice from set pieces against Denmark but did not allow a goal from open play, while also creating two excellent chances to take the lead before half-time.
Wales have not won their previous two matches, but Solbakken said their recent form should not be judged too harshly.
“When you’ve been on a very high momentum and then you concede and lose like that against Bosnia and Herzegovina, it’s very difficult to digest immediately,” he said.
“It might take some effort to get back into the best rhythm. But you certainly cannot say they performed poorly against Portugal and Denmark.”
Norway’s main objectives in the Nations League are to secure a seeded position in future tournament draws and reach the next stage. Previous defeats have made that task more difficult, but Solbakken said the match offered a fresh opportunity.
He also rejected the need to focus on Norway’s status as a so-called golden generation, saying the priority was to build a cohesive team and establish strong relationships away from the pitch.
Norway have improved over the past two years, he said, although injuries and changes in form can quickly affect smaller nations.
On Martin Ødegaard’s availability, Solbakken said the midfielder would have tests in training but had not been ruled out.
“I wish I could give a positive answer, but I can’t say that now. However, I also can’t say he definitely won’t play, so anything is possible,” he said.
