Who tops the charts for Norway’s soccer stars?
From the domestic Eliteserien league to the international stages, which Norwegian athletes shine brightest?
Uncover the most popular soccer players from Norway and witness how they’ve shaped the beautiful game.
Also, check out this article for a broader look at the most popular athletes from Norway.
Most popular soccer players from Norway:
- Ole Gunnar Solskjær
- Erling Haaland
- Ada Hegerberg
- John Arne Riise
- Tore André Flo
- Martin Ødegaard
- Morten Gamst Pedersen
- Rune Jarstein
- Ingrid Syrstad Engen
- Vidar Riseth
- Guro Reiten
Table of Contents
#1 Ole Gunnar Solskjær
- 🎂 Born in: 1973
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Winning the 1998/99 UEFA Champions League with Manchester United
Ole Gunnar Solskjær, widely known as the “Baby-Faced Assassin,” has made a name for himself as a clinical striker during his time at Manchester United. His impact on Norwegian and global soccer is immense.
Today, he continues his influence in the sport as a successful manager, guiding Manchester United as the head coach.
#2 Erling Haaland
- 🎂 Born in: 2000
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2020 Golden Boy Award
Erling Haaland, a young and powerful forward, is currently one of the most sought-after talents in world soccer. His extraordinary goal-scoring ability has already earned him numerous accolades and records.
Haaland’s rapid rise to prominence has placed him as a potential future great of Norwegian soccer.
#3 Ada Hegerberg
- 🎂 Born in: 1995
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2018 Women’s Ballon d’Or winner
Ada Hegerberg, a prolific goal-scorer and forward, has established herself as one of the best female soccer players globally. Her remarkable achievements include multiple domestic and international titles with Olympique Lyonnais.
As the first-ever recipient of the Women’s Ballon d’Or, Hegerberg has made a significant impact on women’s soccer in Norway and worldwide.
#4 John Arne Riise
- 🎂 Born in: 1980
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Winning the 2004/05 UEFA Champions League with Liverpool
John Arne Riise, a versatile player known for his powerful left foot, enjoyed a successful career both domestically and internationally. His memorable stint with Liverpool FC made him a fan favorite in England.
Riise remains one of the most renowned soccer players in Norwegian history.
#5 Tore André Flo
- 🎂 Born in: 1973
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Scoring 50 goals for Chelsea FC
Tore André Flo, a tall and skillful forward, gained popularity during his time at Chelsea FC. His achievements with various clubs, including Rangers and Sunderland, have left a lasting impression.
Flo remains a prominent figure in Norwegian soccer history and serves as an inspiration to many aspiring players.
#6 Martin Ødegaard
- 🎂 Born in: 1998
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Signing with Real Madrid at age 16
Martin Ødegaard, a talented playmaker and attacking midfielder, burst onto the scene as a teenage prodigy. His early success earned him a high-profile move to Real Madrid, and he continues to showcase his skills at the club and while representing the Norwegian national team.
Ødegaard’s career remains promising as he’s hailed as a key figure for the future of Norwegian soccer.
#7 Morten Gamst Pedersen
- 🎂 Born in: 1981
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Scoring 47 goals for Blackburn Rovers
Morten Gamst Pedersen, a creative midfielder and dead-ball specialist, gained recognition for his time at Blackburn Rovers. His long-distance shooting and pinpoint crossing ability made him a significant threat on the field.
Gamst Pedersen’s success in English football has cemented his place in Norwegian soccer history.
#8 Rune Jarstein
- 🎂 Born in: 1984
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Playing over 150 matches for Hertha BSC
Rune Jarstein, a reliable and agile goalkeeper, has been a consistent presence for both the Norwegian national team and his club teams throughout his career. His performances for Hertha BSC in the German Bundesliga have garnered praise and recognition.
Jarstein’s longevity and versatility continue to make him a standout player in Norwegian soccer.
#9 Ingrid Syrstad Engen
- 🎂 Born in: 1997
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Winning the Toppserien league title with LSK Kvinner
Ingrid Syrstad Engen, a skilled midfielder, has made a name for herself in both domestic and international women’s soccer. Her performances with LSK Kvinner and the Norwegian Women’s national team have been impressive, displaying her technical ability and intelligence on the field.
Engen’s continued success establishes her as a significant talent within the Norwegian soccer landscape.
#10 Vidar Riseth
- 🎂 Born in: 1972
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Playing over 50 matches each for Rosenborg BK, LASK Linz, and Celtic FC
Vidar Riseth, a versatile player capable of playing in midfield and defense, enjoyed a successful club career both within Norway and abroad. His time with notable clubs, such as Rosenborg, LASK Linz, and Celtic FC, showcased his adaptability and skill on the pitch.
Riseth’s accomplishments and dedication to the game make him a noteworthy figure in Norwegian soccer history.
#11 Guro Reiten
- 🎂 Born in: 1994
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Winning the FA Women’s Super League with Chelsea
Guro Reiten, an attacking midfielder and forward, has made waves in women’s soccer both domestically and internationally. Her success with Chelsea in England’s FA Women’s Super League highlights her exceptional skills and goal-scoring prowess.
As a key player for both her club and the Norwegian Women’s national team, Reiten’s talent cements her as a prominent figure in contemporary Norwegian soccer.
FAQ
Who is the greatest soccer player in the history of Norway?
Often regarded as Norway’s best, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the greatest soccer player in the country’s history.
Who is the most famous female soccer player from Norway?
Ada Hegerberg, the first woman to win the Ballon d’Or, is Norway’s most famous female soccer player.
Which Norwegian soccer player is most recognized internationally?
Erling Haaland, currently playing for Borussia Dortmund, is the most internationally recognized soccer player from Norway.
Norwegian soccer boasts of talents known worldwide, much like the passionate and skilled players from Venezuela. Our feature on the most popular soccer players from Venezuela dives into their stories.
