Erling Haaland scored for Norway in their Nations League match against Portugal after his manager Stale Solbakken withdrew him from pre-match media obligations to focus on scoring goals. The decision followed the announcement of Manchester City's guilty verdict in their legal dispute with the Premier League.
Haaland shielded from press duties
The Norwegian No.9 had been scheduled to address journalists before Sunday's fixture in Oslo. But following reports that City had been found guilty of 114 of 115 charges, the decision was made to shield him from questions and keep his focus on international duty.
Solbakken highlighted how former City midfielder Rodri's press conference had been consumed by speculation about sanctions and the ruling. Despite preparing to face England with Spain, the coverage was dominated by the unfolding story about City.
Goal and defeat in Oslo
Haaland was perfectly positioned to convert the rebound after Diogo Costa could only parry an initial free-kick. His strike cancelled out Joao Felix's opener, though the scores remained level only briefly as Goncalo Ramos restored Portugal's advantage merely three minutes afterwards. Ruben Dias netted in a 2-1 victory for Jorge Jesus' Portugal side.
Solbakken stated on Haaland: "We naturally want him to focus and have the best possible conditions to prepare. As everyone knows, there have been external discussions in the past day, but that has nothing to do with the UEFA Nations League or what we'll do next.
"Rodri's press conference yesterday is a perfect example; it wasn't about the UEFA Nations League either. So I think Haaland should focus on his task now. His task is to score for Norway, and I think everyone agrees that's what matters most.
"That certainly needs to be considered (media access to Haaland). Making this decision now doesn't mean he won't attend future press conferences. It's just that right now, we've decided to arrange it this way. I think he can handle it [the noise surrounding his club while on international duty] well."
Solbakken achieved his objective of protecting his key striker from being drawn into the furore surrounding the guilty verdict, despite the frustrating night in Oslo.
