When asked about the best footballing nations, the likes of France, Brazil and Spain spring to mind; all three countries have a plethora of talented individuals. Yet, as the next generation begins their breakthrough, it is Norway who look an underdog team to keep an eye on.
Before, they were a small fish amongst sharks in the growing waters of international football. Now, however, with the likes of Erling Håland at their disposal, they are well-positioned to create some huge upsets by the time 2022 comes around.
Next Generation of Norwegian Stars One to Keep an Eye On
Erling Haaland: A Generational Forward for Norway
Erling Håland, at the age of 20, is already one of the best forwards around. His clinical nature in front of goal is a trait you would expect to see from a veteran; his confidence grows with each minute on the pitch, as does his reputation.
And, the fact is, he’ll only improve while wearing the famous yellow of Borussia Dortmund. In similar fashion to what Zlatan Ibrahimović has done with Sweden, Håland will also elevate the Norway national team both on and off the pitch.
With a staggering 44 goals to his name last season, too, Håland’s confidence alongside his ability would have undoubtedly skyrocketed to new levels, putting him in a great position to become the main man for Norway.
Martin Ødegaard: Norway’s Very Own Midfield Maestro
Many national teams fail when finding adequate service for their star strikers. Norway, going against this norm, have their very own midfield maestro in the form of Martin Ødegaard, however, to play the role of creator.
The 21-year-old, currently back at Real Madrid following a successful loan spell at Real Sociedad, more than proved his worth last season. There was once a time when the Madrid man was written off entirely; many believed he would never fulfil his supposedly great potential.
Yet, here we are, and here is Martin Ødegaard ready to give Zinedine Zidane a selection headache ahead of next season. Like Håland, too, the Norwegian international will only improve as time goes on, leaving him in the position to lead his country into a new era alongside his fellow Norwegian star.
The partnership of the two youngsters will cause plenty of problems come the 2022 World Cup to potentially give Norway many underdog victories.
Experience Alongside Youth Key for Norway
Håland, alongside Ødegaard, will undoubtedly become a key player for Norway, but experience will still be needed. And this is where the likes of Håvard Nordtveit and, by the time 2022 comes around, Mohamed Elyounoussi will come into play.
Both players, as well as a few others, will be crucial in guiding the more youthful stars. Celtic defender Kristoffer Ajer can use Nordtveit to learn and overcome any issues. The Celtic man is another, alongside the aforementioned Håland and Ødegaard, who will lead Norway into a new era.
It is exciting times ahead for Norway who, for the first time in forever, could see national team progression.
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