Arsenal supporters had a mixed reaction to a video showing Norway`s national team coach playfully wrestling with Martin Odegaard.
The lighthearted interaction even led some fans to jokingly speculate whether the coach was secretly sent by Real Madrid to potentially harm the Gunners` key player.
Odegaard, 26, captained Norway in their 4-2 victory against Israel in a World Cup qualifier held in Hungary on Tuesday.
The midfielder provided three assists before being substituted by manager Stale Solbakken late in the game.
Solbakken clearly expressed his satisfaction with Odegaard`s excellent performance and demonstrated their friendly relationship.
He warmly greeted Odegaard with a handshake and a hug, offering words of encouragement as he left the pitch.
Following the match, footage emerged showing a more playful interaction between the two.
Former Wolves manager Solbakken, 57, jokingly put Odegaard in a headlock near the touchline.
The coach then escalated the playful moment, attempting to pull the player to the ground in a wrestling-style move.
In a comical turn, Solbakken himself ended up on the ground, releasing Odegaard, who managed to stay on his feet.
Both were laughing as the Arsenal star proceeded to the bench to watch the final minutes of the game.
However, Arsenal fans online reacted with a mix of amusement and concern.
With crucial upcoming matches for Mikel Arteta`s team, including Premier League games and a significant Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid, fans are anxious about player fitness.
Arsenal is set to play against Real Madrid at home on April 8, followed by the return match at the Bernabeu on April 16.
Supporters are eager to see their key captain protected from any potential injuries, especially ahead of facing his former club, Real Madrid.
After watching the clip of Solbakken and Odegaard, one fan jokingly questioned on social media: “Was this coach sent by Madrid to injure Odegaard?”
Another fan commented, “This man must be a Madrid fan… he wants our captain injured.”
A third added, “I’d be flying to Norway to confront him if he caused an injury.”
Another fan expressed concern: “Get off our captain, we can`t afford any more injuries.”
Finally, one user appealed directly: “Dear coach, please stop doing that. Sincerely, all Arsenal fans.”
