Oscar Bobb, a gifted kid, made his senior debut for City as a late substitute during the victory over Fulham.
Man City already has one superstar from Norway, but there may be room in their ranks for another.
The talisman of this City squad is Erling Haaland, whose goals helped them win the Triple last season and are propelling them forward at a breakneck clip this year. In the weekend victory over Fulham, he scored three goals, making it three goals in each of his first four league games.
However, Oscar Bobb’s late cameo in the win over the Cottagers provided a glimpse of another Scandinavian sensation. The 20-year-old made his senior debut, and although he only had a few minutes to play, he showed some promise with one gorgeous, deft turn on halfway.
The Norwegian is a major favorite of City manager Pep Guardiola, who gave him playing time on the summer tour of Asia. The young player received transfer interest this summer, but City were always eager to keep him on staff. As the season goes on, he may anticipate playing more first-team minutes.
There is little doubt that Bobb, who relocated to the Etihad in 2019 from Oslo-based Vlerenga, has a bright future, even though he still has a long way to go to catch up to the accomplishments of his countryman.
Even though Jeremy Doku’s entry has increased competition, City permitted Riyad Mahrez to leave in part because of his potential.
Bobb, who can play anywhere along thBe frontline, stood out for the City Development team last season with 17 assists in 25 games. He was in and around the senior squad at the close of the previous campaign, but an impressive summer spent on Under-21 duty for Norway and preseason duty for City has cemented his place in Guardiola’s plans. The Catalan was particularly taken with his performance against Yokohama F. Marinos in July.
“Oscar made an incredible season for the second team last year,” remarked Guardiola. He displayed incredible play today. He is also capable of playing three or four positions.
He entered the game against Fulham on the right side, although he is equally at home on either wing and is capable of playing in the center or just off the front. He possesses above-average close control, dribbling skills, and a level of game knowledge much beyond his years. Despite the fact that City has so many top-tier options at their disposal, they won’t push him into the senior squads for club and country, but his road there appears to be clear.
Although he hasn’t played for Norway yet and isn’t on their roster for the September internationals, senior coach Stale Solbakken has him in mind, which is understandable.
