Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard has been named captain of Norway’s 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. The announcement, revealed via a unique pre-recorded video message from the King of Norway, also features Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland. The squad will compete in the expanded 48-team tournament hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Squad Unveiled with Royal Flair
In an unconventional reveal, Norway’s World Cup squad was officially presented through a video message shared on social media by His Majesty King Harald V. This royal endorsement added a unique touch to the selection process, with players reacting with surprise and a touch of disbelief.
Derby County defender Sondre Langas shared his astonishment with national broadcaster NRK, stating, “I didn’t trust it [the squad] until the video was finished. I didn’t trust the King for a second.” This sentiment underscores the novelty and excitement surrounding the announcement.
Key Players and Notable Inclusions
The squad boasts a strong contingent of players plying their trade in top European leagues. Captain Martin Odegaard, fresh off winning the Premier League title with Arsenal, brings leadership and midfield prowess. Alongside him, Erling Haaland, a dominant force for Manchester City, is expected to spearhead Norway’s attack.
Other notable inclusions are Fulham’s Oscar Bobb and Crystal Palace forward Jorgen Strand Larsen. The squad also features a surprise inclusion in Hamburg goalkeeper Sander Tangvik, who becomes the team’s only uncapped player.
Tangvik’s call-up comes as a result of an injury to SK Brann’s Mathias Dyngeland. Norway’s attempt to switch the international allegiance of former Russia Under-21 goalkeeper Nikita Haikin was not approved by FIFA.
Norway’s World Cup Journey
Norway will commence their World Cup campaign on June 16 in Boston, facing Iraq in their opening match. Their group stage fixtures also include challenging encounters against Senegal and France. The expanded 48-team format promises a lengthy tournament, concluding on July 19.
Squad List
Goalkeepers: Orjan Haskjold Nyland (Sevilla), Egil Selvik (Watford), Sander Tangvik (Hamburger SV).
Defenders: Julian Ryerson (Borussia Dortmund), Marcus Holmgren Pedersen (Torino), David Moller Wolfe (Wolverhampton), Fredrik Bjorkan (Bodo/Glimt), Kristoffer Ajer (Brentford), Torbjorn Heggem (Bologna), Leo Skiri Ostigard (Genoa), Sondre Langas (Derby County), Henrik Falchener (Viking).
Midfielders: Martin Odegaard (Arsenal), Sander Berge (Fulham), Fredrik Aursnes (Benfica), Patrick Berg (Bodo/Glimt), Kristian Thorstvedt (Sassuolo), Morten Thorsby (Cremonese), Thelo Aasgaard (Rangers).
Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Alexander Sorloth (Atletico Madrid), Jorgen Strand Larsen (Crystal Palace), Antonio Nusa (RB Leipzig), Oscar Bobb (Fulham), Andreas Schjelderup (Benfica), Jens Petter Hauge (Bodo/Glimt).
Looking Ahead
With a blend of established stars and emerging talent, Norway’s performance in the World Cup will be closely watched. The leadership of Odegaard and the goal-scoring threat of Haaland provide a strong foundation. As the tournament approaches, attention will focus on how manager Stale Solbakken integrates the squad and navigates a competitive group stage, aiming to make a significant impact in the expanded global showpiece.
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