Arsenal supporters had a mixed reaction to a video showing Norway`s coach engaging in a wrestling-style interaction with Martin Odegaard.
Some fans even jokingly wondered if the coach was secretly sent by Real Madrid to intentionally harm the Arsenal captain.
Odegaard, 26, captained his national team to a 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 in added time.
Solbakken was visibly pleased with his key player`s performance and has a strong rapport with Odegaard.
This was evident when he shook hands and hugged the Arsenal star, offering words of encouragement.
However, some Arsenal fans were less than amused by the playful interaction.
Mikel Arteta`s team faces a crucial period, aiming to maintain their slim hopes in the Premier League title race and prepare for their Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid.
Arsenal will host the reigning European champions on April 8, with the return match at the Bernabeu on April 16.
Fans are anxious to keep their key captain fit and injury-free, especially before facing his former club, rather than seeing him involved in wrestling antics during international duty.
Upon seeing the video with Solbakken, one fan jokingly commented online: “Was this coach sent by Madrid to injure Odegaard?”
Another fan wrote: “This coach must be a Madrid supporter… he wants our captain injured.”
A third added: “I would go to Norway to confront him if he injured him.”
A fourth commented: “Get off our captain, we can`t afford any more injuries.”
Finally, one user replied: “Dear coach, please stop that. Sincerely, all Arsenal fans.”
