Under Mannsverk’s mentality work and Knutsen’s coaching, Bodo/Glimt transformed from narrowly escaping relegation in 2018 to winning their first domestic league title in 2020, followed by three championships in four years. Their success led to a notable performance in the Europa Conference League, where they shocked Celtic under Postecoglou, winning 5-1 on aggregate. Knutsen emphasizes attacking, high-press football, making them a formidable opponent. Postecoglou acknowledges their strength, stating that regardless of size, both clubs are now in a European semi-final and deserve respect. Spurs will not underestimate Bodo/Glimt after their past humiliation.
Thanks to Mannsverk’s influence on mentality and Knutsen’s coaching strategies, Bodo/Glimt experienced a significant transformation.
After just escaping relegation in 2018, they clinched their first domestic league title in 2020, followed by triumphs in three of the next four seasons.
These championship victories secured them a spot in European competitions, where they aimed to compete fiercely rather than merely participate.
In 2022, they entered the Europa Conference League, taking on a Celtic team led by current Spurs manager Postecoglou.
Bodo/Glimt not only surprised the Scottish giants in their knockout round play-off but also defeated them 5-1 on aggregate, winning the first leg 3-1 and the second 2-0 to advance to the last 16.
“Knutsen employs an attacking style,” Pedersen noted. “They prefer high pressing and play in a manner similar to Tottenham.
“Knutsen expects a lot from his players; he’s a great guy, but the team is very strong.
“They are extremely fit and well-prepared. They understand their roles, and Tottenham will face a tough match.”
Having experienced defeat against Bodo/Glimt previously, Postecoglou affirmed that Spurs will approach them with caution.
“They are a solid football team,” the Australian remarked. “It doesn’t matter where you come from. I hail from a place where football is the fourth sport, so I never underestimate anyone.
“If you label them as a small club and us as a big one, it’s irrelevant. We are both in the semi-finals of a European competition, and they have rightfully earned their place.
“They have worked hard to achieve this, and we will treat them with the respect they deserve.”