Yesterday, it was confirmed that Anders Byström, along with two national team coaches, is stepping down. Now, Swedish veteran Calle Halfvarsson hopes for a Norwegian coach in the national team.

On Tuesday, Sweden’s national team manager Anders Byström announced he is leaving his position one year before his contract expires. In addition, two head coaches are stepping down: Stefan Thomson from the women’s team and Anders Högberg from the men’s team.

Also Read: Steps down after six years: “A good time to step aside”

Not surprised

Calle Halfvarsson is not surprised.

“It was not unexpected. It would have been strange if it hadn’t happened, considering the circus at the end of the season and during the Olympics,” Halfvarsson tells SVT.

After this winter’s Olympics, which were the worst in decades for the Swedish men’s team, criticism has poured in from both athletes and experts. Several have called for leadership changes and said they lack confidence in the management. Halfvarsson does not agree with that.

“Personally, I have nothing against Byström or the other coaches. We have always had good dialogue, and it has worked well,” he says.

Calls for change

At the same time, Halfvarsson is clear that changes are needed.

“As we now head into a season with a World Championships on home soil, we need some new thinking to get this ship back on course, especially on the men’s side. Something has to be done. I don’t think it requires major changes, but some fresh ideas would be good,” says Halfvarsson.

In that context, the 37-year-old has a suggestion.

“It would be interesting to have a Norwegian coach,” he says.

Halfvarsson left the national team setup in April last year after 14 years in the elite squad, choosing instead to follow his own training program ahead of the Olympic season.

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