Martin Odegaard is officially the youngest international in Norway history. The 15-year-old started the country's friendly against the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday, breaking a 104-year-old record held by Tormod Kjellsen.
15-year-old becomes youngest player in Norway history
Martin Odegaard broke Norway’s 104-year-old record.
Jeff Gross
Odegaard, who was born on December 17, 1998, only made his professional team earlier this year, but he has been pegged for greatness from an early age. The son of a former professional, Odegaard was training with Stromsgodset’s first team at the age of 13 and when he made his debut in May, he became the youngest player in the Norwegian League’s history. Two weeks later, he scored his first goal and became the league’s youngest ever goalscorer.
By the summer, Odegaard was starring for Stromsgodset. He was up to three goals and racked up assists. Dubbed “The Norwegian Messi,” papers began to call for him to make his international debut and scouts from clubs like Real Madrid and Liverpool were reportedly spotted at his matches.
Odegaard is not expected to be in the Norway team when they play a Euro 2016 qualifier next week. While he has gotten his first cap today, it was as part of a largely domestic and young team, not the first choice squad. But he is still the youngest player the country has ever suited up and, if the hype is any indication, isn’t far from starring in qualifiers.
Not bad for a kid so young he doesn’t even need to pay for bus fare yet, let alone learn how to drive.
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