Erling Haaland doesn’t seem as comfortable with Norway as he does with Borussia Dortmund and has found himself facing criticism over this international break.
Not only is he not as prolific for Norway, but he has been accused of having a different attitude and behaviour while playing for his country.
Norway‘s 3-0 loss to Turkey has led to strong criticism of Haaland in his country, with some corners of the press labelling the result “a disaster”.
Former Liverpool full-back and ex-Norway international John Arne Riise was one of those who criticised Haaland in particular.
“He’s praised for showing his character and reacting when things don’t work out at Dortmund, but here we haven’t seen any of that,” Riise said.
Bernt Hulsker joined in with Riise‘s criticism, again comparing the striker’s club form with that of his country.
“It’s disappointing,” Hulsker said.
“He doesn’t play with the same confidence that we’re used to seeing.
“At Dortmund he’s angry when he makes bad passes, but here he just surrenders. I’m not saying that he’s disinterested, but he doesn’t give off the same impression. It’s a worrying sign.”
Haaland and Odegaard together
In defence of Haaland
Coach Stale Solbakken leapt to his player’s defence, however.
“His international career has just begun,” Solbakken said.
“The questions are coming too early.”
Martin Odegaard joined in with his coach, defending the striker.
“The problem is that we have to use him better,” Odegaard said.
“We have to play better football and create more chances for him.”
