Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has rejected suggestions that Manchester City requested Erling Haaland be excused from press duties, describing the claim as a lie that undermines his integrity.
Haaland, 26, had been scheduled to face reporters on Saturday but was replaced by Fredrik Aursnes and Andreas Schjelderup. He still started the Nations League match against Portugal the following day, scoring in a 2-1 defeat in Oslo.
Solbakken explains the decision
The change in plans was widely linked to Manchester City's 114 alleged financial breaches, which the club has denied and plans to appeal. However, Solbakken said the decision was his alone and had nothing to do with the club.
Speaking to VG, via Sport Witness, he said: "I haven't spoken to anyone at Manchester City about the media since Erling was to move from Dortmund to City. That was the last time I spoke to City about the media."
He added: "It's a lie. It also undermines my integrity. I go to great lengths to be honest because this is the people's national team. I try to give my all and that of the team. This was a decision I made [giving him a day off on Saturday] without informing Erling. I just said: 'You can let this go. If you want to go, then you go. But for me you are exempt'."
Haaland's display and post-match moments
Haaland appeared unaffected by Friday's news, scoring his third goal of the international break. He faced Manchester City teammate Ruben Dias during the match, and the pair were seen talking at full-time.
There was a more brief exchange with former City player Bernardo Silva. The Real Madrid star went in for a hug, but Haaland appeared to snub it, possibly due to disappointment at the result or their changed club relationship. Others have suggested Haaland was annoyed by Silva's late tackle on Martin Odegaard.
Other City players in action
Despite the possibility of a points deduction, other City players have continued to make an impact for their nations. Rayan Cherki provided an assist off the bench for France in their late win over Belgium on Monday. Nico O'Reilly set up a Harry Kane goal against Spain, though he later gave the ball away in a dangerous area, leading to Alex Baena scoring. Marc Guehi also made an error that Lamine Yamal capitalised on in the first half.
