Aalesund vs Start - Eliteserien

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Aalesund and Start together at the home ground on September 4, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the Eliteserien occasion. Manchester United drew 1-1 with Paris Saint-Germain in their fourth pre-season fixture of the summer on Saturday.

Aalesund head into the contest positioned 15th in the Eliteserien standings, while Start arrive sitting 16th. Aalesund are in the midst of a difficult spell, LWLDD in their last five summing up a win rate of 15%. Start have found wins elusive, WLWLL in their last five underscoring a win rate of 20%. Where Aalesund have leaned on defensive discipline, Start have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. The Nottingham Forest playmaker is not anticipated to leave the City Ground this summer, unless a substantial transfer fee is put on the table.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Aalesund and Start have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Schalke were third bottom for possession in winning the second tier, let alone facing Bayern.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer Amin Chiakha, with 12 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Manchester City are currently in negotiations to sign Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi after his impressive World Cup displays.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Aalesund ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. Whatever the outcome, the Eliteserien fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. The Spaniard heading to Barca all but rules out a midfield departure from the Bernabeu and thus United will likely have to look elsewhere.