Oscar Bobb has established himself as a regular starter for Manchester City, one of the most successful clubs in European football, yet his role with the Norway national team remains limited. Despite his growing reputation in the Premier League, Bobb is still struggling to secure a consistent place in Norway’s starting eleven, underlining the extraordinary depth of talent currently available to the national side.
The 22-year-old has long been considered one of the brightest prospects in Norwegian football, but his progress last season was hampered by injuries that kept him from maintaining full fitness. This disruption cost him opportunities on the international stage, as he was unable to compete regularly for a position in the national squad.
Now fully fit and playing every week for Manchester City, Bobb might reasonably have expected to break into Norway’s first team. However, the reality is proving more challenging, as competition in the attacking positions remains fierce.
Norway’s Attacking Riches
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Norway’s front line is spearheaded by Erling Haaland, one of the most prolific strikers in world football, and flanked by Antonio Nusa and Alexander Sørloth, both of whom have been in excellent form. With all three players currently available and performing strongly, there is little room for alteration. This leaves Bobb on the bench, despite his significant contributions at club level.
The wealth of attacking options reflects a broader trend in Norwegian football, with the current generation representing one of the most gifted in the country’s history. For Bobb, breaking into the starting line-up will require patience, persistence, and making the most of every chance he is given during international fixtures.
Solbakken’s Explanation
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National team manager Ståle Solbakken acknowledged Bobb’s quality but stressed the difficulty of fitting all the talent into one starting side. Speaking via [VG](https://www.vg.no/sport/i/5E1V4z/oscar-bobb-fast-paa-laget-i-manchester-city-paa-benken-for-norge), he explained, “He is close to the team in both places. We want all the best players on the team, but sometimes it is difficult to have everyone on the field at the same time.”
Solbakken’s words suggest that Bobb remains firmly in his plans, even if he has yet to claim a guaranteed place. For the young forward, the challenge now is to continue impressing both at Manchester City and in his limited minutes for Norway. Consistent performances will strengthen his case, and given his ability, it seems only a matter of time before he becomes an integral part of the national team’s starting eleven.