Aursnes returns to Norway fold, following Figo, Messi and Benfica’s Tiago | OneFootball

Fredrik Aursnes has made himself available for Norway again after time away from international duty. Glorioso 1904 notes that his decision mirrors other high profile returns by Tiago Mendes, Luís Figo and Lionel Messi.

In Benfica terms, Tiago Mendes is the closest parallel. He stepped back after the 2010 World Cup, rejoined in 2014 under Fernando Santos, and earned eight more caps, providing steadiness and experience for Portugal.

Luís Figo initially retired following Euro 2004 on home soil, then reversed his call to play at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, where Portugal finished fourth. He closed his international career after that tournament with 127 caps.

Beyond Portugal, Lionel Messi announced his international exit in 2016 after defeat in the Copa América final, but returned within weeks. That comeback preceded one World Cup, two Copas América and a Finalissima.

Aursnes has explained that his 2024 decision was linked to physical and mental fatigue. He now feels able to compete at the highest level again, aiming to be at the 2026 World Cup, which runs from 11 June to 19 July in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Source: Glorioso 1904