Pakistan football has received a major boost following FIFA’s approval of midfielder Etzaz Hussain’s change of sporting nationality, a decision that officially allows the Norway-born player to represent the Pakistan national team.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who once shared the pitch with star striker Erling Haaland during their time at Molde FK, completed the switch after FIFA’s confirmation earlier this week.
Hussain, born in Oslo in 1993 to parents from Kharian, Gujrat, obtained his Pakistani passport in early 2024 and had already voiced his determination to wear the green jersey. His addition to the squad brings not only international pedigree but also a wealth of professional experience across several European leagues.
Considered one of Molde FK’s most successful players, Hussain has enjoyed a decorated career in Norwegian football. He has four Eliteserien league titles and three Norwegian Cups to his name, giving him a total of seven trophies with the club. Over the course of his career, he has made nearly 300 professional appearances.
Beyond Norway, his career has also taken him to Turkey with Sivasspor, Croatia with NK Rudeš, Cyprus with Apollon Limassol, and most recently back to Norway with second-tier side Odd.
Hussain’s footballing journey began at Langhus before he secured a move to Manchester United’s youth academy in 2009. Although he did not break into the first team at Old Trafford, he described his time there as “an experience for life.”
His professional debut came in 2011 with Fredrikstad, where he made an instant impact by scoring a decisive goal in the Norwegian Cup. His return to Molde under Ole Gunnar Solskjær marked the most successful spell of his career, where he became a central figure in the club’s domestic dominance and European campaigns.
Internationally, Hussain represented Norway from U16 to U23 levels but never featured in senior competitive fixtures, leaving him eligible for Pakistan. With his nationality switch now cleared, he is expected to bring vital stability and experience to Pakistan’s midfield ahead of upcoming international matches.
Officials within Pakistan football have hailed this development as a turning point. “Having a player of Etzaz Hussain’s caliber and experience will inspire both the team and the fans,” said a representative. Hussain himself has spoken often of his pride in his Pakistani heritage.
In 2021, he was honored by the Pakistan embassy in Oslo during Independence Day celebrations, further reflecting his connection to the country he will now represent on the international stage.
