Benfica star praised by national coach after starring v Sweden: leader | OneFootball

Fredrik Aursnes wore the Norway shirt again almost three years later and left a strong impression in the 3-1 win over Sweden, in a warm-up match for the 2026 World Cup. Benfica’s number 8 started and played an important role in the dynamics of the team coached by Stale Solbakken.

At the end of the match, the Norway manager did not hide his satisfaction with the performance of the 30-year-old midfielder. "He really had a very good return. He played a hybrid role, as a more attacking midfielder or forming a duo in midfield; he gave the team security and rotation. I think he gained greater leadership ability through the role he had at Benfica," he said.

Aursnes stood out precisely because of the versatility he showed throughout the match, alternating between more advanced positions and support duties in building up play. The consistency he displayed ended up earning recognition from the Norwegian national team’s technical staff.

With a contract valid until 2029, the Norway international remains one of the most influential figures in Benfica’s squad. Since arriving at Benfica - which brought news for Tiago Gouveia - in the 2022/23 season, he has established himself as a key part of the team, protected by a release clause set at 50 million euros.

In the 2025/26 season, playing for Benfica, Fredrik Aursnes - valued at 15 million euros - made 49 official appearances: 28 in the Liga Portugal Betclic, 14 in the Champions League, four in the Portuguese Cup, two in the League Cup and one in the Super Cup. .

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.