Solskjaer Eyes Haaland Reunion as Norway Nears World Cup Return

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made clear his ambition to reunite with Erling Haaland, as the Manchester United legend looks to take the next step in his managerial career. The Norwegian coach, who previously guided Haaland during their time together at Molde, has set his sights on returning to the dugout—possibly with an eye on leading his homeland’s national team.

Solskjaer’s Connection with Haaland: From Molde to the World Stage

The bond between Solskjaer and Haaland is rooted in their time at Molde, where the striker’s rise to stardom began under Solskjaer’s guidance. Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Solskjaer expressed both pride and hope for another chapter with Haaland, stating: “Who wouldn’t want to work with Erling Haaland again?” The Manchester United icon praised the forward’s relentless development, highlighting his role in nurturing Haaland’s aerial prowess—a facet Haaland himself acknowledged in a recent interview, crediting Solskjaer for transforming his heading ability.

Haaland’s Role in Norway’s World Cup Bid

As Norway closes in on qualification for the 2026 World Cup, Haaland’s influence has been indisputable. The Manchester City superstar recently netted twice in a crucial 4-1 victory over Estonia, pushing Norway to the brink of their first global tournament appearance since 1998. With 30 goals this season for club and country, Haaland’s remarkable consistency and goal-scoring feats underscore his elite status in world football.

The Next Step for Solskjaer: A National Team Role?

Currently unattached after parting ways with Besiktas in August, Solskjaer remains open-minded about his next role. While he maintains admiration for current Norway boss Stale Solbakken, he hinted at a possible future with the national team, especially if the position becomes available. “It’s about working with people and helping them become the best version of themselves,” Solskjaer remarked, emphasizing his passion for player development wherever his next opportunity emerges.

Missed Opportunities: Haaland’s Unfulfilled United Move

Looking back, Solskjaer revealed his efforts to bring Haaland to Manchester United before the striker’s explosive emergence at RB Salzburg. Despite his recommendations, the club declined to act on his advice, missing out on signing Haaland for what would have been a bargain fee. As Haaland went on to join Manchester City, scoring 143 goals in 161 appearances and helping deliver a historic treble, United are left to ponder what might have been.

Haaland’s Record and World Cup Ambitions

Now a mainstay at Manchester City, Haaland has become one of the game’s most prolific forwards, breaking multiple records and putting Norway on the cusp of World Cup qualification. His partnership with Solskjaer at the national level could usher in a new era for Norwegian football, with the possibility of a successful World Cup campaign on the horizon.

Solskjaer’s Desire to Coach Haaland Again

For Solskjaer, the prospect of coaching Haaland once more is both a professional and personal goal. Their mutual respect and history of development could prove vital as Norway aims for a breakthrough on the world stage. Solskjaer’s proven track record with young talents and his affinity for Norwegian football make him a compelling candidate should the national role open up.

Opinion: Solskjaer and Haaland Could Be Norway’s Winning Formula

In my view, reuniting Solskjaer and Haaland for Norway could be the spark needed to propel the national team to new heights. Their chemistry, combined with Haaland’s world-class talent and Solskjaer’s player-centric coaching style, would be a story to watch in international football. As both men have unfinished business together, Norwegian fans will be hoping fate brings them back to the same bench soon.

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