Aarhus midfielder from Norway feared end to his career after multiple sclerosis diagnosis
The ordeal started for the talented midfielder back in February, striking without any prior notice. He awoke one morning to find he could scarcely see from his left eye. "It appeared dark and indistinct. I lost roughly sixty per cent of my sight. Initially, I attempted to conceal it, yet when I failed to strike the ball properly in table tennis following training, I knew something grave was amiss," Solbakken shared candidly with TV 2.no. This prompted an immediate consultation with a physician and a scan of his brain via MRI. Findings revealed swelling in the optic nerve linked to multiple sclerosis.
His response to the shocking revelation was one of profound anguish. As the offspring of Norway's national team manager Stale Solbakken, he inevitably dreaded the direst outcomes. "I must confess, upon hearing the diagnosis, I lay huddled on the sofa at home, in tears. I felt petrified and convinced my days in football were finished," the 25 year old conceded. The psychological strain proved so intense that he delayed informing his parents by several days.
The upsetting disclosure naturally affected the entire household deeply. His father, Stale, acknowledged that the period of various medical examinations was utterly draining and fraught with anxiety. Nevertheless, he commended his son's resilience. "It proved an unprecedented circumstance for our family. Yet Markus possesses an exceptional spirit. He never once contacted me claiming he could no longer cope. His optimistic outlook proves invaluable amid such difficulties," remarked the moved Norwegian coach.
Although facing a grave condition, hope gleams on the horizon for the skilled player. Solbakken remains sidelined from official games presently, since his eyesight deteriorates noticeably when his pulse elevates, but he now participates in complete sessions with the squad.
Furthermore, medical experts have approved his return to professional play, assuring that his optic nerve ought to heal entirely. "This diagnosis shall not impact my future in the sport. The specialists assured me I may resume playing football. I feel prepared for the upcoming campaign," he stated assuredly.