Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has sought to ease concerns over Erling Haaland’s fitness after the Manchester City striker was substituted during their Nations League defeat to Portugal on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Haaland was withdrawn in the 67th minute after appearing to struggle with a knock and was later spotted limping. His early departure immediately raised concerns that he could be a doubt for Manchester City’s Premier League meeting with Liverpool on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
However, Solbakken has indicated that the decision to take Haaland off was not prompted by a fresh injury.
The Norway coach explained that the striker had been expected to play only around an hour because of fatigue following a demanding run of international matches.
“In today’s match, he gave us 60 good minutes,” Solbakken told Dagbladet.
The Norway boss said Haaland had already featured for the full 90 minutes against Denmark and Portugal in their previous meeting before showing signs of tiredness against Wales.
“He played 90 minutes twice against Denmark and Portugal [in the first match]. He was tired against Wales. That’s why we had a heart-to-heart conversation [on Saturday]. We went through all the possibilities there could be.
Solbakken added that there had been discussions about using Haaland for the second half instead, but the striker was uncomfortable with that approach based on his previous experience.
“He could perhaps have played the last 45 minutes [the second half] against Portugal. That was a discussion. But he has very bad vibes and feelings about that.
“He has experienced being put on in the League Cup and it hasn’t been great. I am very satisfied that he managed to dig out 60 good minutes.” He added.
Haaland’s condition will nevertheless remain a major talking point ahead of City’s clash with Liverpool, with the Premier League champions likely to monitor their leading striker closely before deciding whether he is ready to feature.
