Swedish expert praises Norway coach Solbakken's media skills

Swedish football expert Olof Lundh has lauded Norway's national team manager Ståle Solbakken, highlighting his transparent approach to media interactions. Lundh, who previously criticized Norway's celebrations after their World Cup qualifying success, now finds Solbakken's directness and clarity particularly valuable.

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He is who he always has been. I like that he can handle questions about FIFA and that he is so clear there. I am impressed by the way he handles it.

"He is who he always has been. I like that he can handle questions about FIFA and that he is so clear there. I am impressed by the way he handles it," Lundh told VG. Solbakken engaged with both Norwegian and international press following a 2-1 victory over Brazil, addressing topics ranging from his personal feelings about the win to tactical assessments and player-related issues.

Lundh noted Solbakken's willingness to be candid, even sharing a personal anecdote about watching the match again with a Coca-Cola and chocolate while his staff celebrated. "He is not politically or diplomatically careful, but he is direct and clear," Lundh observed. This contrasts with many coaches who adopt a more reserved stance.

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He is not politically or diplomatically careful, but he is direct and clear.

The expert believes Solbakken's extensive media engagement serves as a significant asset to the Norwegian team. "I think it is a strength for the Norwegian national team that they have a coach who shows up so much in the media," Lundh said, comparing it to the less frequent press appearances of Sweden's coach, Graham Potter. Lundh added that Solbakken acts as a "lightning rod" for the team, effectively relieving pressure on star players like Haaland and Ødegaard.

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I think it is a strength for the Norwegian national team that they have a coach who shows up so much in the media.

Despite his openness, Lundh also acknowledged Solbakken's ability to set boundaries, pointing to instances where he deferred questions about FIFA's involvement in refereeing decisions to football president Lise Klaveness. Lundh sees this balanced approach as "incredibly valuable" for the Norwegian squad.

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It relieves the players. I understand that you want to talk to Haaland and Ødegaard too, and that you don't always get to, but he relieves them.