Bodø/Glimt's Nikita Haikin gains Norwegian citizenship, eyes World Cup call-up
Bodø/Glimt goalkeeper Nikita Haikin has officially become a Norwegian citizen, a move that could pave the way for an international call-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Norwegian national registry confirmed the change on Friday, completing a naturalisation process that had been ongoing for several months. The 30-year-old, who holds Russian, Israeli, and British passports, now adds Norwegian citizenship to his collection.
Haikin expressed his gratitude on social media following the confirmation. "Bodø and Norway have become my home," he posted on Instagram. "I am extremely grateful to now be a Norwegian citizen. A big thank you to everyone who has supported me and been part of this journey. This is my Norway."
The acquisition of a Norwegian passport opens a significant new chapter for Haikin's career, as it makes him eligible for selection by the Norway national team. According to reports in Norway, national team manager Ståle Solbakken is considering the goalkeeper for future squads, with an eye on the upcoming World Cup cycle. Norway is in a qualifying group that includes France, meaning Haikin could potentially line up against the French side if selected.
Haikin has been a key figure for Bodø/Glimt since joining the club in 2021, playing a crucial role in their historic run to the quarter-finals of the 2021-22 UEFA Europa Conference League. His consistent performances in both the Eliteserien and European competitions have raised his profile considerably. Born in Moscow, Haikin came through the Chelsea academy as a youth player and had spells in Israel and Portugal before finding a stable home in northern Norway.
For the Norwegian national team, the addition of Haikin provides increased depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. Current first-choice keeper Ørjan Nyland of Sevilla is 33, and Haikin's arrival offers Solbakken another experienced option. The move also reflects a growing trend of players naturalising for sporting reasons, particularly ahead of major tournaments.
The timing of the citizenship grant is notable, as it allows Haikin to integrate into the national team setup well in advance of the next World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His familiarity with high-pressure European matches could be an asset for Norway as they seek to qualify for their first World Cup since 1998. For Bodø/Glimt, having an internationally capped goalkeeper would further enhance the club's reputation as a developing force in Scandinavian football.
