Leo Østigård is a Norwegian professional footballer born in 1999 who plays as a centre-back. He is known for his defensive reliability and his experience in top-tier leagues, including his time with Napoli where he won the Serie A title in the 2022–23 campaign. He also represents the Norwegian national team, for which he scored during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A header against Iraq on 16 June 2026 marked a pivotal contribution for Leo Skiri Østigård during Norway’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. Born on 28 November 1999 in Molde Municipality, this professional defender has navigated an expansive career across European leagues, building a reputation for his defensive reliability and occasional offensive presence in top-tier competitions.
Foundations and Early Progression
Østigård began his professional journey by signing a three-year contract with Molde FK in early 2017. Before the 2018 season, he gained experience through a loan spell with Viking FK. Following his time in Norway, he signed with Brighton & Hove Albion, marking his entry into the English league system, which led to subsequent loan periods at St. Pauli, Coventry City, and Stoke City. During his stint at Coventry City, he solidified his role as a key defender, making 39 league appearances and netting two goals while helping the team maintain their Championship status.
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In January 2022, Østigård joined Genoa on loan, marking his debut in Serie A. His time in Italy included notable performances, such as a domestic cup goal against Milan. Following this period, he secured a permanent move to Napoli in July 2022. During the 2022–23 campaign, he was part of the squad that secured the Serie A title. His Champions League debut for Napoli saw him score in a 3–0 victory against Rangers in October 2022, highlighting his capacity to perform on the highest European stage.
French Tenure and Returning to Italy
A transfer to Rennes in Ligue 1 occurred in July 2024, valued at €7 million with a contract slated until 2027. He scored his first goal for the club against Reims in September 2024. After a brief loan spell at TSG Hoffenheim in early 2025, Østigård returned to Genoa in July 2025. This deal eventually became permanent on 31 January 2026, marking his second full tenure with the Italian side.
International Representation
After progressing through Norwegian youth levels, Østigård earned his senior international debut on 25 March 2022 against Slovakia. He scored his first international goal later that year against the Republic of Ireland. His inclusion in Ståle Solbakken’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup allowed him to showcase his skills on the global stage, including his goal-scoring performance in the opener against Iraq.
Fast facts
- Born: 28 November 1999, Molde Municipality
- Position: Centre-back
- Senior International Debut: 25 March 2022
- Serie A Title: 2022–23 with Napoli
- Rennes Transfer Fee: €7 million
- First English Goal: 5 April 2021
Questions readers ask
Which clubs has Leo Østigård played for in Italy?
He has played for Genoa and Napoli.
Did Leo Østigård score during his Champions League debut?
Yes, he scored in a 3–0 win against Rangers on 26 October 2022.
