Ståle Solbakken, the Norway national team coach, explained Erling Haaland's absence from the press conference ahead of the match against Portugal, confirming that the decision was made to give the Manchester City striker the best conditions to focus on the game, amid the issue that has occupied public opinion in recent hours.
Solbakken said: "Everyone knows what the topic has been over the last 24 hours, and this has nothing to do with the UEFA Nations League and what we will do. Therefore, it is appropriate for Haaland to focus on what he needs to do, which is to score goals for Norway."
Erling Haaland has been excused from the press conference following Manchester City's conviction for 114 breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations, according to British reports.
Solbakken also confirmed that Haaland will start against Portugal, noting that the player is in good shape despite the noise surrounding his club situation.
