Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard have been best friends since they first teamed up for the Norwegian national team in 2019. Their friendship has only grown stronger over the years, even as they face off against each other in the Premier League. Sander Berge, another member of the trio, reveals that Haaland is known for his pranks and jokes, which he continues to play on Odegaard regardless of the match outcome.
The bond between Haaland, Odegaard, and Berge is evident in their constant calls and texts. They support each other both on and off the field, and their friendship remains strong no matter who comes out on top in their matches. Berge even finds it amusing to watch them compete against each other for their club teams while playing together for the national team.
Initially, there were concerns about how Haaland’s move to Manchester City and Odegaard’s move to Arsenal would affect their friendship. However, everyone has since adjusted to the situation, with Haaland scoring goals for City and Odegaard captaining Arsenal. The Norwegian dressing room is now used to seeing them play for different clubs and enjoys watching them succeed.
Berge recalls the first time he saw Haaland play and how they became friends. After a match between Berge’s team and Haaland’s RB Salzburg, Haaland showed up during Berge’s doping control with a cheeky grin and the match ball in his hand. From that moment on, they became close friends. Berge also highlights his long-standing friendship with Odegaard, dating back to their time in the age group national team.
Their friendship goes beyond football. They often spend time together off the field, sharing meals and discussing their shared hobby of food and recovery. They prioritize nutrition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, though they occasionally indulge in a Sunday roast. Haaland’s attention to detail when it comes to his nutrition and recovery is particularly impressive.
Despite their close friendship, they understand the competitive nature of football. When they face each other on the field, they give their all for their respective teams. However, they always maintain respect for each other and would never harm one another, regardless of the match result. Berge describes their friendship as “cool” and feels fortunate to be a part of it.
During the international break, the trio reunited, with Haaland missing a penalty in a friendly draw against Slovakia. Berge, on the other hand, is preparing to face Chelsea in Burnley’s battle to avoid relegation. On Sunday, Haaland and Odegaard will face each other as City takes on Arsenal. While there will be no quarter asked or given during the match, their friendship remains intact.
Berge concludes by expressing his admiration for Haaland and Odegaard’s dedication and hard work in their pursuit of the title. He feels privileged to play alongside them and witness their determination firsthand. The trio’s friendship is a testament to the camaraderie that can exist in football, even between opponents on the field.