A Major Boost for Pakistan Football
Pakistan football has received a significant morale boost after FIFA officially cleared midfielder Etzaz Hussain to represent the national team. The Norway-born player, aged 32, successfully completed the change of sporting nationality, marking an important development for Pakistan’s international football ambitions.
Hussain, who had obtained his Pakistani passport in early 2024, had long expressed his desire to wear the green jersey. With FIFA’s confirmation now secured, he is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s midfield in upcoming fixtures.
A Decorated Career in Europe
Hussain is one of the most decorated players in Norwegian football history. During his time with Molde FK, he won four Eliteserien league titles and three Norwegian Cups, making him the club’s joint-most successful player with seven trophies.
He also shared the pitch with world-class striker Erling Haaland during his Molde stint and reunited with Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who coached him during the club’s dominant years.
International and Club Experience
Over the course of his career, Hussain has made nearly 300 professional appearances. His journey includes stints in Turkey with Sivasspor, Croatia with NK Rudeš, Cyprus with Apollon Limassol, and most recently with Norwegian club Odd.
Born in Oslo in 1993 to parents from Kharian, Gujrat, Hussain began his early football journey at Langhus before joining Manchester United’s youth academy in 2009. Although he did not break into United’s senior squad, he called his time at Old Trafford “an experience for life.”
Hussain later made his professional debut for Fredrikstad in 2011, where he scored a decisive goal in the Norwegian Cup, kick-starting his successful career.
Representing Pakistan with Pride
While he represented Norway at youth levels from U16 to U23, Hussain never appeared for the senior side in competitive fixtures, which kept him eligible to play for Pakistan.
Pakistan Football Federation officials hailed FIFA’s decision, describing it as a historic step. “Having a player of Etzaz Hussain’s caliber and experience will inspire the team and fans alike,” a spokesperson said.
Hussain has often expressed pride in his Pakistani heritage. In 2021, he was honored by the Pakistan Embassy in Oslo during Independence Day celebrations, underscoring his strong connection to his roots.