Article by Adrian Duţă – Published Thursday, December 18, 2025 11:10 p.m. / Updated Thursday, December 18, 2025 11:33 p.m.
Age Hareide, one of the greatest Norwegian players in history, has died at the age of 72. The former Hødd, Molde, Manchester City and Norwich defender was suffering from brain cancer. He was diagnosed in July 2025.
Hareide died half a year after receiving the diagnosis.
Age Hareide, the legend of Norway, died at the age of 72
“One of the biggest figures in the history of Norwegian football has passed away. For the last four decades, Age Hareide was one of the most important figures in Norwegian football, achieving great success both as a player and as a coach.
Hareide was the coach of the Norwegian national team between 2003 and 2008 and played in 50 international matches. His achievements make him one of the greatest Norwegians of all time in football, including several championships and cup titles in both Norway, Sweden and Denmark. In addition, he led Denmark to both the European Championship and the World Cup.
Our thoughts are with the family. Thanks a lot for everything you've done for Norwegian football, Age. Rest in peace,” the Norwegian Football Association said.
Hareide, 3 times Romania's opponent
Age Hareide was Romania's opponent 3 times, once as a coach and once as a player. On September 24, 1980, Hereide scored in Norway – Romania 1-1. The “Tricolori” finished 3rd, 1 point behind England, which qualified.
Age Hareide also played in the 1983 friendly, Norway-Romania 0-0. In 2017, he faced Romania from the position of Danish national team selector.
As a coach, Hareide won the title in Norway (Rosenborg), Denmark (Brondby) and Sweden (Malco, Helsinborgs).
